Meet Joanne Jiang! This talented 15-year-old cellist will take center stage at this year’s Spark to Flame student showcase on March 1. With free tickets available (RSVP required), this is your chance to experience the magic of young musicians bringing their dreams to life.
A Musical Journey
Joanne’s first string instrument was a traditional Chinese instrument called Erhu. After moving to Canada, she was drawn to the deep, warm sound of the cello as it is known to encompass the entire range of the human voice. From that first spark of inspiration to today, Joanne has experienced many memorable moments, notably performing as the principal cellist of the Greater Victoria Youth Orchestra for the first time.
“Feeling the energy of the orchestra and being part of something bigger than myself was incredible.”
Choosing the Perfect Piece
For Spark to Flame, Joanne has chosen to perform Saint-Saëns’ Cello Concerto No. 1 for its beautiful balance of passion and elegance. It has challenged her technically and emotionally, and allows the cello to shine as a solo instrument.
Inspirations and Aspirations
Joanne’s music teachers have had the largest influence on her, their approaches to music having shaped how she plays and interprets pieces. And as for aspirations:
“I want to keep improving technically while finding new ways to express myself through music. Ultimately, I hope to inspire others the way music has inspired me.”
It is perhaps no surprise that if Joanne could collaborate with any musician, past or present, her choice would be Jacqueline du Pré who was celebrated for her passionate and energetic playing.
.A Performance You Don’t Want to Miss
Join us at the Spark to Flame showcase to witness Michelle and other talented young musicians perform alongside professional mentors.
- Date: March 1, 2025
- Time: 7:30pm
- Location: Alix Goolden Performance Hall, entrance at 900 Johnson Street
- Tickets: Free (RSVP required)
2025 Spark to Flame Student Showcase
The annual Spark to Flame program is presented through the Ann & George Nation Conservatory School of Classical Music and supports the development of young emerging professional artists.
Open to all students of the Victoria Conservatory of Music, soloists are selected through audition, and then offered the opportunity to be mentored by various Conservatory faculty over the weeks leading up to the concert, including rehearsals with orchestra.
The concert is a magical evening featuring seven very talented student soloists accompanied by fellow student peers, faculty artists, and other professional musicians.
