Bay of Plenty’s Young Classical Musicians Shine at Rising Stars Concerto Competition
Tauranga Boys’ College Graham Young Youth Theatre will once again host the highly anticipated Rising Stars Concerto Competition, a biennial event that has become a cornerstone for classical music enthusiasts, young musicians, and their teachers across the Bay of Plenty since its inception in 2009.
This year, under the baton of conductor William McElwee, seven exceptionally talented young instrumentalists, aged 12-18, will have the invaluable opportunity to perform as soloists with the Bay’s community orchestra. The competition offers not only the thrilling experience of performing with a live orchestra but also the chance to earn the coveted “Rising Star” title.
Meet This Year’s Finalists
The 2025 finalists showcasing their skills are:
- Elisha Tie (Violin)
- Jasper Zhang (Violin)
- Esha Xu (Piano)
- Heejay Choi (Oboe)
- Hugo Broad (French Horn)
- Rima Azuma (Piano)
- Zekai Jiang (Piano)
Adding to the excitement, Enoch Tie, the winner of the 2023 Rising Stars competition, will return to perform Gabriel Faure’s Fantaisie with the orchestra. In a special highlight, his winning composition, Transcending Zeniths, will also receive its premiere at the concert.
Distinguished Judges and Programme Highlights
The performances of these aspiring musicians will be evaluated by a panel of three highly respected New Zealand musicians: Sam Brough, contrabassoonist with the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra (APO); acclaimed pianist Stephen de Pledge; and brilliant young conductor Vincent Hardaker.
The diverse programme for the evening includes:
- Elisha Tie & Jasper Zhang – Vivaldi Double Violin Concerto in A minor (whole work)
- Esha Xu – Mozart Piano Concerto in A Major (1st movement)
- Heejae Choi – Haydn Oboe Concerto in C major (1st movement)
- Hugo Broad – F. Strauss Horn Concerto op. 8 (2nd & 3rd movements)
- Rima Azuma – Grieg Piano Concerto in A minor (2nd movement)
- Zekai Jiang – Rachmaninov Piano Concerto no. 2 (2nd movement)
This event promises to be an evening of inspiring performances and a testament to the thriving young classical music scene in the Bay of Plenty.
Learn More and Get Involved!
Want to know more about the Rising Stars Concerto Competition and support these incredible young musicians?
Click here to visit the official Facebook event page for all the details:
