Jemima Xeros attained high distinctions across all her subjects for her Bachelor of Music Studies. Photo: Shri Gayathirie Rajen.
Jemima Xeros is on an impressive trajectory that seems bound for musical greatness.
Growing up in a musically-inclined family it was unsurprising when Jemima, who has played the piano from the age of eight, started studying at the Riverina Conservatorium of Music (RCM) at age 10.
The now 21-year-old is completing the final year of a Bachelor’s of Music through Central Queensland University, which she is undertaking remotely at the RCM, attaining a GPA of 7 (a high distinction) in all her subjects in 2021.
She was also recognised as the recipient of the Rotary Club of Mackay Prize from Central Queensland for 2021.
“It was a nice surprise to receive the prize – I wasn’t expecting it,” she said.
While Jemima said her inspiration for playing the piano is her older brother, she credits all her learning and achievements to the Conservatorium, where the Xeros family has had students since the 1990s.
“I’ve had a few different teachers, and I learnt a lot of various things from each of them,” she said.
“I had the opportunity to perform with other students and access to a good piano here [at the RCM].”
The high-achiever is interested in furthering her performance and teaching experience through a Masters of Music (Performance and Pedagogy) at the Elder Conservatorium of Music in Adelaide.
Jemima hailed from a family of musicians and was inspired by her brother who also plays the piano to start playing the instrument. Photo: Shri Gayathirie Rajen.
“I’m looking to go away and learn with another teacher in the next couple of years and get experience in other areas,” she said.
Jemima was also awarded the Dr Ray King Scholarship, adding to what RCM CEO Hamish Tait said was “immense respect” the young musician had already earned during her decade at the Conservatorium.
“Jemima makes a valuable contribution through her ability to be incredibly insightful and has the capability to watch other people play and provide constructive feedback,” Mr Tait said.
“She’s got an excellent foundation and an incredibly good approach to music.
“From the time she started at the Conservatorium, she was quiet and determined to get things done.
“Jemima has given countless performances as a soloist as a chamber musician, and she’s also a wonderful cellist.
“Her time here at the Conservatorium has been one significant achievement.”
The RCM is partnering with Central Queensland University to offer a Diploma of Music and Bachelor of Music to school leavers who wish to continue their music education in the Riverina.
Loading ...
