Rising Stars

Three to look out for…

Carlos Simon composer

Born: Washington, US Career highlight:

Being appointed as composer-in-residence at the John F Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, which has seen great projects across different departments – writing new works for Washington National Opera and the National Symphony Orchestra, and being part of their crucial social impact work in and around the DC area.

Musical hero: Quincy Jones and John Williams. They are so wide-ranging in their composing styles and musical genres, and I suppose I see a bit of myself in them. Dream concert: Having my latest piece,

Four Black American Dances, performed at the BBC Proms. Masabane Cecilia

Rangwanasha soprano

Born: Johannesburg, South Africa

Career highlight: Singing Verdi’s Requiem for the First Night of the BBC Proms in 2022.

Musical hero: I look up to and learn from so many musicians. Two in particular, however, are soprano Jessye Norman and conductor Antonio Pappano.

Dream concert: I have two separate dreams, for opera and concert! My opera dream would be to sing a leading role at the Metropolitan Opera in New York. My dream concert is to perform at the Last Night of the Proms, as it is so joyous and fun. Kevin Chen pianist

Born: Edmonton, Canada Career highlights: Participating in the Concours de Genève has been a highlight, and it was truly overwhelming to receive so much encouraging support and feedback.

Musical heroes: There are many influential legendary musicians who I admire. One hero of mine is pianist Martha Argerich. Her unique style of playing is fearless, but also natural, colourful and powerful.

Dream concert: A dream concert would be one that pleases everyone listening, in the most beautiful concert hall, with a leading orchestra. Ultimately, however, to be able to touch people with music is already a dream come true.