Spark to Flame tickets are officially sold out! If you were lucky enough to secure a seat, you’re in for an incredible evening on March 1, as young musicians take center stage to showcase their passion, dedication, and artistry.
We are currently taking a waitlist for this event. Add your name to the waitlist here: https://www.showpass.com/spark-to-flame-student-showcase-2-2025/
One of this year’s featured soloists is Sylvan Wilkinson, a talented saxophonist whose journey in music has been filled with inspiration, exploration, and growth.
A Musical Journey
Since discovering a love for the saxophone 11 years ago in middle school, Sylvan has experienced many memorable moments.
“One of my favourite experiences was travelling to the North American Saxophone Conference with the saxophone studio at UVic in 2022. My quartet had the opportunity to play in a masterclass, and we were able to meet and listen to a lot of other passionate saxophonists.”
Sylvan is currently studying under the expert guidance of Dr. Alexander Richards in the Advanced Independent Music Studies program.
Choosing the Perfect Piece
For Spark to Flame, Sylvan chose to perform Fantasia by Heitor Villa-Lobos because it is energetic and full of character, and it packs a lot into a short amount of time. It suits the personality of their soprano saxophone, which they describe as “a little childish and playful”.
Inspirations and Aspirations
When asked about musical influences, Sylvan identified their peers and other students:
“[They] motivate and inspire me to continue to challenge myself.”Outside of music, they also enjoy birdwatching, baking, and crocheting.
Looking ahead, Sylvan is working towards auditioning for masters programs to continue their music studies. But for now, they’re focused on delivering a performance that will leave the audience feeling excited.
Advanced Independent Music Studies (AIMS)
AIMS is a one-year accredited certificate program designed to provide advanced music students with intensive and project-based practical training. There are four pillars: Performance, Teaching, Technology and Creativity, and Business.
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.
