General News
13 October, 2022
Terang’s got talent
Ms Kenna said the recognition was a tale of redemption for the two young musicians, who each received an encouragement award in last year's Jean Wood Music Award after committee members noted their burgeoning talent.
TWO of Terang’s youngest musical talents have been recognised through the 2022 Jean Wood Music Awards.
Terang locals Aiden Richards, eight, and Ian McGillivery, 12, could not be separated by the Jean Wood Music Award committee and split this year’s junior scholarship as co-winners.
Jean Wood Music Award committee president Jo Kenna was joined by members Pat Lyons and Eve Black on Monday to present
Ian and Aiden with this year’s awards, surrounded by family and friends.
In addition to the recognition, each of the boys will receive a $100 prize.
Ms Kenna said the recognition was a tale of redemption for the two young musicians, who each received an encouragement award in last year's Jean Wood Music Award after committee members noted their burgeoning talent.
“It was lovely to see the improvement Aiden and Ian showed from last year, both have a lot of potential,” she said.
“They were named joint winners because we just couldn’t split them.
“They were both so promising in their abilities to play their respective instruments.
“We recognised their talents last year, and their potential remains clear to see.”
Ian plays piano and church organ while Aiden plays guitar, with each showcasing an ability beyond their years during the audition process.
Ian said he was “very excited” to have been named joint-winner.
“At my audition I played 'Sonatine' by Muzio Clementi and a traditional American folk tune called 'Shenandoah' on the piano,” he said.“It went very well.”
Aiden thanked the committee members for the recognition, and his music teacher Marie Ewing for her support.
“I’m very happy to have won, and a little surprised,” he said.
“At my audition I played ‘I walk the line’ and ‘Greensleeves’.
Ms Kenna said both boys showed how “polished” their abilities were during the audition process.
“They played with confidence and enjoyment, and that’s the sort of things we’re looking for,” he said.
“Above all, we want to see people enjoying their music.”
The Jean Wood Music Awards have been an annual staple since the death of highly regarded music teacher, Jean Wood.
She taught a generation of musicians throughout the region including Terang, Mortlake, Camperdown and Cobden; a number of whom remain on the Jean Wood Music Award committee to this day.
