Alicia Newton practices her music. 73442 Picture: DAMJAN JANEVSKI
By XAVIER SMERDON
SHE may only be in Grade 6, but Point Cook’s Alicia Newton is already making a name for herself in the world of classical music.
The young virtuoso violin player has recently been selected to be part of SubUrban Exchange, a ground breaking concert that will be held at the Melbourne Recital Centre.
The concert will combine the musical creations of Melbourne Youth Music’s classical orchestra, the Anti-Racism Action Band (ARAB) and hip hop choir MASSIVE.
The unique blend of rap, hip hop and classical music is believed to be a first in Australia.
Twelve-year-old Alicia is one of the lucky musicians selected to play in the orchestra.
“I’m really looking forward to it,” Alicia said.
“I really like how the different kinds of music will be mixed.”
Alicia has been playing violin since she was just three years old and is already playing at a Grade 7 level, which is designed for musicians years older than her.
The skilful school kid practices every day before school for an hour and said the secret to mastering any instrument is commitment.
“It just takes dedication. I love the benefit of being in an orchestra and the great classical sounds,” she said.
“A lot of my friends started playing an instrument but they just quit when it got too hard, so you just have to stick with it.”
SubUrban exchange will be held on 23 November at the Melbourne Recital Centre. For more information visit www.melbournerecital.com.au or call 9699 3333.
