Meet Michelle George, a talented 15-year-old pianist who 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
Michelle received a toy piano as a gift at age three and instantly loved playing with it. After a music school visited her kindergarten class and she was thrilled by the experience, she asked her parents to send her for piano lessons. From that first spark of inspiration to today, Michelle has experienced many memorable moments including winning the Alexander & Ingrid Henderson Senior Piano Concerto Cup.
“After working on my piece for a long time, I was really excited to perform it. I was overjoyed to learn that I had won the cup, and it reinforced my passion for music.”
Choosing the Perfect Piece
The piece Michelle chose to perform for Spark to Flame, Mozart’s Piano Concerto in Bb Major, K 238, challenged her while also allowing her to express Mozart’s refined style, and she found that it helped her grow both technically and musically.
“I hope the audience feels uplifted by the lively character of the theme [and] inspired by the energy and elegance of the piece.”
Inspirations and Aspirations
When asked about her biggest musical influence, Michelle identified her teacher of the past eight years, Dr. Yoomi Kim, who has been encouraging throughout her musical journey.
Outside of music, she enjoys karate and playing with her dog.
Through her performances in the community, including regularly at two seniors homes, Michelle sees the impact that music has on people and is inspired to never stop playing the piano.
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.
