Mike Zining Wang, a learner from Paarl Boys’ High, has just been awarded first prize in the prestigious National Youth Music Competition for his extraordinary performance of Rachmaninov Piano Concerto No 2 in C Minor.
The purpose of the National Youth Music Competition is to identify and promote the talent and abilities of young classical musicians.
Mike, born in China, moved to South Africa at the tender age of 8.
He started taking piano lessons around the same time under the guidance of the renowned Prof Mario Nell, director of Stellenbosch UNiversity’s Conservatoire of Music.
He’s is a Grade 10 learner at Paarl Boys’ High.
In addition to music he plays chess, taking part in the SA Nationals Chess competition.
This versatile learner is also in the school’s wind band.
Says its conductor, Reghardt Künh (whe was himself awarded silver in the National Conductors Competition): “Mike is a wonderful and inquisitive learner who embraced the opportunity of a new musical ensemble with open arms.
“Although not his first instrument, he was able to slot into the percussion section with ease while being able to contribute to the overall product of the wind band.”
