Rising Stars

Three to look out for…

Zoie Reams Mezzo-soprano

Born: Chicago, US

Career highlight: Playing the part of Clarice in La pietra del paragone at

Wolf Trap Opera last year. Singing a lead Rossini role truly frightened me at the time but, looking back, it was an especially rewarding experience. Musical hero: The American soprano Leontyne Price for her artistry and what she gave to the opera world. Being an Africanamerican and moving in the world of opera in the way she did is something I aspire to. Dream concert: It would be a mix of opera, musical theatre, jazz, spiritual and dance – with a full orchestra! All of these styles tumbled into one for me when I was younger.

Joon Yoon Pianist

Born: Seoul, South Korea Career highlight: My debut at the Barbican playing Brahms’s Piano Concerto No. 1 with the Guildhall Symphony Orchestra and winning the Guildhall’s Gold Medal. Musical hero: I am always grateful to my teachers, who have in their own distinct ways shaped and defined who I am as a musician: Yong Hi Moon, Robert Mcdonald, Hung-kuan Chen, and Ronan O’hora. Their passion and integrity are inspiring.

Dream concert: As an audience member my dream concert would be watching Carlos Kleiber conducting Brahms and Beethoven. As a performer, playing Brahms’s First Piano Concerto with the Berlin Philharmonic at the Proms would be incredible!

Jonathan Radford Saxophonist Born: Bury St Edmunds, UK

Career highlight: A recent highlight was taking part in and winning the Royal Overseas League Gold Medal and first prize at the newly renovated Queen Elizabeth Hall. Musical hero: My amazing and generous teachers in Paris and London have inspired me along the way. And two other musicians I greatly admire are flautist Emmanuel Pahud and clarinettist Martin Fröst – I’m constantly inspired by them.

Dream concert: Playing repertoire I connect with alongside sensitive and inspiring musicians in great spaces. There would be energy and passion, and a deep satisfaction and connection with the audience.