Seventeen-year-old violinist Sharon Zhao, representing New South Wales, was named the champion of the prestigious John Curro National Youth Concerto Competition (JCNYCC) after delivering an outstanding performance at the competition finale held at the Old Museum on Sunday, 12 October.
Zhao earned first place among more than 25 talented young string soloists participating in the 50th iteration of this national event, which celebrates the legacy of the late John Curro, the founder of the Queensland Youth Orchestras (QYO).
The rigorous selection process, conducted throughout the year, showcases Australia’s most exceptional string soloists under the age of 18, including violinists, violists, cellists, and double bass players. Many past competitors have advanced to notable careers on both national and international stages, with prominent alumni such as Richard Tognetti, Jane Hazelwood, Emily Sun, Li Wei Qin, and Ray Chen.
In the final round, Zhao performed Sergei Prokofiev’s challenging Violin Concerto No. 2, Op. 63. She was accompanied on stage by fellow finalists Clara Moloney and Vincent Zhu, both cellists. The ensemble was supported by the Queensland Youth Symphony, conducting under the guidance of QYO Assistant Conductor Zachary Miezio and Artistic Director Simon Hewett.
Following her victory, Zhao expressed deep gratitude for the support and inspiring leadership of Artistic Director Simon Hewett and the entire QYO organization, highlighting the significance of their contributions to her musical growth and success.
— The Violin Post Editorial Staff
