2023-24 Music Centre Award holders and Scholars. Read the students bios and learn how they have benefited from their awards and scholarships.
Further information about the UEA Music Centre Awards can be found on our Music Centre Award page.
Further information about the UEA Music Scholarships can be found on our Music Scholarship page.
2023-24 Music Centre Award holders:
Raphael Schettler (BIO) - Violin
I’m Raphael and I am currently doing a Master’s of Science by Research at the UEA, looking at human eye development & how the ‘eye-field’ gene network interplays with the retinal Turing Network. I play the violin, piano and sing, but my main instrument is the violin.
I have been playing violin for 19 years and have been a member of many orchestra’s and string groups growing up in school. I have absolutely loved being a part of the UEA Symphony Orchestra since 2020, and I have enjoyed performing a variety of music from classical to jazz. Apart from my involvement in the UEA Symphony Orchestra, I lead a chamber quartet group made up of PGRs at UEA, which allows us to gain more performance experience & widen our repertoire of music. This year, I used my award to fund my chamber quartet by purchasing sheet music and using notation software to arrange and transcribe music. It has been a great experience and a lot of fun to be a part of all these fantastic ensembles. Making music is my way of relaxing and I am very happy to have been able to do this through a variety of ensembles.Koh Okuhara (DEV) - Violin
I'm Koh, a visiting exchange student of International Development at UEA from Japan. I'm honoured to receive UEA Music Award.
I have been playing the violin since the age of three and learning under the tutelage of Asako Urushihara, who is a professor at Tokyo University of the Arts.
I really appreciate being a member of a wonderful orchestra, UEA Symphony Orchestra, and this opportunity made my study abroad life much more enjoyable.
I have been awarded at many competitions so far, such as the 3rd prize at Osaka International Music Competition and the 2nd prize at Yokohama International Music Competition.
Also, I have several experiences of playing violin concerto as a soloist with an orchestra. For instance, selected through an audition, I performed Saint-Saëns' Violin Concerto No. 3 as a soloist.
I strongly aspire to become a person who can perform in a way that moves people's hearts, not just technically but musically, and who can also share the beauty of classical music with the world.Darcie Jago (HSC) - Trumpet
I’m Darcie, a first year student studying my Masters in Occupational Therapy. I have played musical instruments for as long as I can remember, first starting the piano aged 5. I grew up playing cornet in Brass Bands, before moving my focus to the trumpet and orchestral playing aged 13. I was awarded a scholarship to attend a specialist music school from Year 10 to Year 13, before completing my undergraduate degree in Music Performance at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London. During my time at The Guildhall, I explored many different styles of music, finding a passion for baroque music and the natural trumpet, as well as jazz, big band and musical theatre, whilst still keeping busy with orchestral playing too.
It was really important to me that music would stay a part of my life once I began at UEA, so I was thrilled to be awarded a Music Centre Award to enable this to happen. As well as playing in the UEA Symphony Orchestra, I have joined the UEA Brass Ensemble, and play in a local brass band outside of the university.Helen Li (MED) - Voice (Mezzo-Soprano)
I’m Helen and currently studying Medicine at UEA. I am a passionate singer-songwriter, though my primary instrument was Piano and singing was always just a hobby before I started university. It wasn’t until I joined the UEA Music Production Society (UEAMPS) where I started to fall in love with creating original music and collaborating with fellow student artists, musicians and producers. Since then, I have put out my own solo music under the name ‘Neonheon’, had cool opportunities to work with musicians across the world and have my music showcased on BBC Radio Norfolk. With UEAMPS, we organize collab sessions and masterclasses for students to have fun making music and learn from each other. And we noticed a gap in live music performance opportunities in UEA, so this year there will be plenty of open mics, lots of events performances and gig opportunities for all students.
This year I have become President of the Music Production Society and hope to inspire more students who have an interest in making music, creating an inspiring, supportive environment for students to collaborate, grow and showcase their music.
I am also a singer in the UEA Jazz Collective and it’s an incredible opportunity and feeling to be able to perform in a big band with such talented musicians.Armin Shamaeizadeh (ENG) - Piano
My name is Armin, and I'm a second-year engineering PhD student at UEA. My musical journey began at the age of 7 when my mother gifted me a piano for my birthday. Her unwavering support fuelled my passion for the instrument over the years. Initially trained in the classical method, my Iranian heritage inspired me to explore Persian piano. At 18, I started to learn Persian piano under the guidance of Saman Ehteshami, a well-known Persian pianist and composer, with whom I have had the honour to perform duets in concerts as well.
Parallel to my piano journey, I embarked on a musical education in solfege and music theory, followed by joining a choir as a bass singer. I've performed as a pianist and bass singer in numerous concerts, featuring both Persian and classical repertoire. I've proudly been a member of the UEA choir since 2023, when I moved to UK and started my study at UEA.
Although my musical journey didn't follow a formal academic path, it has always been an intrinsic part of my life. Further, I continued to deepen my understanding of harmony and music composition, and occasionally create small musical pieces. I play and teach piano in my free time, which helps me unwind after work. I look forward to the opportunity to perform Persian pieces in the future, hoping to introduce this musical tradition to a broader audience. I am immensely grateful to my mother and Saman for their unwavering support and guidance. Without them, none of these achievements would have been possible.Harish Kumar (NBS) - Voice (Indian Folk/Classical)
I am Harish Kumar, and I am MSc Business Management at UEA, as a dedicated Postgraduate student, I have been fortunate to receive the esteemed UEA 2023-2024 Music Centre Award, which has further fuelled my passion for the arts. This recognition has not only validated my hard work and commitment but also inspired me to continue pushing boundaries in my musical pursuits.
Throughout my academic journey, I have had the privilege of collaborating with exceptional musicians and artists, these collaborations enhanced my singing, composing and lyrics writing skills for Indian classical and folk music, that encouraged me to create my YouTube channel “Harry Gill Official” with more than 82k subscribers at present.
In the future, I aspire to contribute to the global musical landscape by creating innovative compositions. The UEA music centre award serves as a testament to my unwavering dedication to the arts, and I am grateful for the opportunity to continue making a positive impact through my passion for music.Angelina Li (HSC) - French Horn
Hi I’m Angelina and I am currently a third year Physiotherapy student. Since the age of six I have been playing the French Horn and now have a performance diploma. I have received music training at the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts for six years and have had the chance to play in different ensembles, such as orchestras and bands, also doing different types of chamber music. Here at UEA I have performed with the UEA Symphony Orchestra and the brass ensemble in concerts. I have absolutely enjoyed my time playing the French Horn at university and will continue to grasp every opportunity to make music.
Rowanna Chown (MED) - Voice (Mezzo-Soprano)
I’m Rowanna, a final-year medical student. Music has been an integral part of my life since I was a young child. Currently, I am a singer and songwriter creating electronic pop music, vocally mixing of hard rock, musical theatre and pop. I learnt to play piano at the age of 4, a valuable skill I now use to write all my songs and sometimes accompany my vocals for live performances. I have been fortunate to play many wonderful shows around Norwich and London, including headlining the acoustic stage at the Dartford Music Festival.
This year at UEA has been particularly musical for me, as I’ve continued to be an active member of the live music society and this year joined music production society. I have also been invited to play fantastic charity cabaret shows in the LCR and across the city. Additionally, I was thrilled to win the first Music Production Society “X Factor” for performance this year. I’m so thankful to the community at UEA for allowing my music to flourish during my time here.Billy Wegg (EDU) - Saxophone
I’m Billy and I’m a 1st Year Physical Activity & Health student at UEA with the dream of going on and working in the field of Physiotherapy. I always have had a passion for music from a very young age, picking up the Saxophone at just the age of 7 and never really looking back. Throughout my school life, I was always heavily involved within the music community, playing in the school Concert Band, Big Band, Saxophone Ensemble and even dabbling in the Choir for a few years for example. I also became the 5th piece of a post/punk rock band called 2-D in November of 2022, even though we have all gone our separate ways now to university, we are all keen to create new music and perform whenever we can all get together.
I achieved my Grade 8 with distinction towards the latter parts of Year 13 and from then I always knew that I didn’t want to let the enjoyment that I had for music slip away. So, upon joining university I was keen to get involved with the UEA Concert Band along with carrying on with lessons to work toward achieving a diploma.
In my case, being able to juggle my studies, music and sport has always been a challenge, however, I am always enthusiastic about finding the time for all of them, as I believe it is so important to be able to have a balance in life and finding the time to do the things that you enjoy is so important.Rona French (ENG) - French Horn
I'm Rona and I am a first-year engineering student. Music has always been a big part of my life, having played my main instrument, the French horn for 10 years and achieving grade 8 performance, as well as achieving grade 8 performance in piano and singing as well. All of this music has led to wonderful opportunities, such as singing in multiple church and school choirs, playing as part of the Aldeburgh Young Musicians and school orchestras and groups.
At UEA, I was excited to join the symphony orchestra, which felt a lot more professional than what I had been used to and I have thoroughly enjoyed myself there this year. Additionally, I am part of the student-led groups such as concert band and brass ensemble. It has been really fun being surrounded by wonderfully talented musicians and I can't wait for next year!Harrison Grover (AMA) - Trombone and Voice (Tenor)
I'm Harrison, a first year Film and Television Production student at UEA.
I have been playing the trombone for over 10 years and my interest in music has continued to evolve over this period. My trombone experience has been invaluable in helping me to develop my overall music ability, both practicing and performing as a soloist and in multiple bands.
Prior to starting at UEA, I have played in a number of bands, orchestras and ensembles as well as sung in choirs both inside and outside of school.
I have performed in numerous concerts over the years including playing at Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club in London, performing with the London Symphony Orchestra at the Barbican in London, The Royal Borough of Greenwich Annual Mayor’s Concert, and performing in a music tour in Italy.
At UEA, I am currently participating in the Big Band, Concert Band, Brass band, UEA Choir, Chamber Choir and Jazz Collective.
I am proud to be a Music Centre Award holder and this will enable me to further develop my musical skills.Grace Patrick (CMP) - Clarinet
I’m Grace and I’m in my first year of a Computing Science degree. I began learning clarinet aged 10 and have gone onto achieve the ARSM diploma with distinction. Due to my passion for music and instrumental playing I also enjoy playing both piano and tenor saxophone and have achieved ABRSM grade 8 in both. I enjoy learning through lessons and grades but my passion lies with orchestral playing, my preferred instrument being the clarinet. You’ll find me usually somewhere in the music building either in UEASO, clarinet choir or concert band. All of which I find thoroughly rewarding and something I plan to continue throughout my time here at UEA.
Trinity Yiu (MED) - Organ
My name is Trinity and I am a first year medical student at UEA. While I have been involved in music for the better part of my life, it was not until I had the fortune to meet two wonderful teachers that I started to receive genuine enjoyment and
personal fulfilment in the art. I received an Organ Scholarship at fourteen and became the most senior member of the first cohort of Organ Scholars at my school.
Aside from developing my knowledge of organ repertoire during my four years as an Organ Scholar, I lead the school assemblies, commencement, and graduation events. I have also had the opportunity to experience the roles of a church musician by playing for Catholic, Lutheran, and Anglican services across different churches in Hong Kong and London.
Last year, I had the privilege of studying at the Royal Academy of Music, London under the tutelage of Dr. David Ponsford. The year of intensive academic and vocational training and spending time around like-minded peers opened my eyes to other facets of life as an organist, such as choir conducting, keyboard skills, harpsichord and harmonium, continuo playing, and improvisation.
It made me realise how infinite music was in its scope and its opportunities for personal creative development. My year at the Academy culminated in a department-wide performance at the 60th St. Albans Organ Festival, where we improvised for a silent horror film Der Golem under the teaching of Franz Danksagmuller, an adrenaline-charged experience that I will never forget.
The joys and challenges of the fruitful year has made me even more determined to keep developing my knowledge and skills in music. This year, I have been involved with the UEA vocal ensemble group as an accompanist, and played excerpts of a French organ mass for the Spring Concert. I am looking forward to beginning my role as a rota organist at St. George, Tombland, in addition to continuing my studies with Dr. Francis Knights in CambridgeYucheng Bian (CMP) - Violin
I am Yucheng, a second-year BSc Computing Science student at UEA, and I am delighted to have received a Music Centre Award. I have been playing the violin since primary school and have achieved Grade 8. Over the years, I have been actively involved in various musical groups and have participated in numerous musical events such as The County Youth Orchestra, Orchestrate! Project, Wymondham Youth Music Society, and Wymondham Music Festival.
At university, I am privileged to be a member of the esteemed UEA Symphony Orchestra. Additionally, I have collaborated with fellow members to form an ensemble where we explore a diverse repertoire beyond the classical pieces performed by the Symphony Orchestra. I am also passionate about giving back to the university community through voluntary work for different societies and groups. I plan to utilize my photography skills to promote UEA's musical activities, aiming to showcase the vibrant musical scene within the university and beyond.Marcus (Kwan Hon) Leung (PSY) - Trumpet
Hi! I’m Marcus and I play the trumpet. I’m a final year BSc Psychology student, UEA Music Centre Award Holder and Vice President of UEA Music Society.
I have a wide musical interest and involve in a wide range of ensembles between UEA Music Centre and Music Society, including: Symphony Orchestra, Jazz Collective, Concert Band, Brass Ensemble, Percussion Ensemble and Cabaret.
As a classical oriented player, I enjoy the wide variety of ensembles available at UEA. I’ve been able to venture into different genres like jazz, funk, soul and musical theatre. I’ve had so much first time musical experiences at UEA, from playing in a function band (Jazz Collective), Brass Banding, Musical Theatre (Cabaret) to tackling difficult orchestral pieces like West Side Story. I had a lot of fun and unforgettable experiences during my time here.
Outside university, I was a student at Septura Brass Academy, and have received tutoring under UK’s top brass musicians. My teachers include:
- James Fountain (Principal Trumpet, London Symphony Orchestra)
- Matthew Knight (Co-Principal Trombone, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra)
- Simon Cox (Principal Trumpet, Aurora Orchestra)
- Simon Minshall (leading London bass trombone freelancer)
- Pete Smith (Principal Tuba, Philharmonia Orchestra)
I’m currently a private student of Chris Avison (leading London freelancer, former Principal Trumpet Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra) and have achieved Trinity ATCL and LTCL performance diplomas under his tutelage. I’ve also recently received offers from the Royal College of Music and Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama (with scholarship) to study MMus in Trumpet Performance.Miyabi (ECO) - Violin
I‘m Miyabi and I am a third-year BSc Economics student at UEA. I am thrilled to have received the Music Center Award. I began playing the violin at the age of five and have won several awards in competitions. Until I was 18, I was also a member of the Japan Youth Orchestra. At UEA, I perform as part of the symphony orchestra and participate in other events.
I am truly honoured to play in the professional environment of the UEA Symphony Orchestra. After graduating from UEA, I plan to actively pursue solo and group concerts. I aim to further develop the skills and experiences I have cultivated at the UEA Music Centre and apply them in other institutions.Elizabeth Hammond (MED) - Flute
My name is Elizabeth and I’m a first year medical student. I come from Essex but I am not familiar with Norfolk so I have really enjoyed getting to know Norwich. Music has always been an important part of my life. My first introduction to music was playing the piano and then I learnt the flute which I have now been playing for 11 years. Most recently, I have achieved my DipABRSM in Flute, Grade 8 Piano and Grade 8 Music Theory. I really enjoy ensemble playing and I have been involved in quite a few over the years but mostly playing in the Essex Youth Orchestra and Essex Youth Symphonic Wind Orchestra.
At UEA, I have loved being a part of the UEA Symphony Orchestra, Concert band and Flute group and I hope to co-run flute group next year. I am incredibly grateful to be a Music Award holder and I will continue to contribute to the music going on at UEA.
2023 entry Music Scholars
Heather Pirie (PSY) - Violin and Flute
I'm Heather, a Psychology student at UEA. I started playing the violin when I was 7 and have since learnt the flute and enjoy singing. I've achieved Grade 8 distinction in flute and am working towards a violin diploma for next semester.
I've always enjoyed playing in groups and I am a member of the UEA symphony orchestra and chamber choir. I've also been an active member of the music society and I'm looking forward to being the Vice-President next year.
My main passions are within classical music and I enjoying taking part in masterclasses and orchestra courses but I hope to expand into other musical genres during my time at university. I also hope to explore more opportunities for solo playing and chamber music.Amelia Fox (LDC) - Viola
I'm Amelia and I study Creative Writing and English Literature at UEA.
When I was seven years old I began having violin lessons. I picked up viola, which is now my main instrument, when I was eleven and have since achieved grade 8 on both . Recently I completed my LTCL viola diploma at Trinity which involved a 45 minute solo recital. Music has been a massive part of my life from a young age, I have enjoyed being in many orchestras, string groups, chamber music groups and more!
Currently I love leading the viola section in UEASO and am also an active member of the music society string group.Ashley Mazanhi (MED) - Flute
My name is Ashley and I am a Medical student and Music Scholar here at UEA. I play piano and double over the woodwind section playing flute and piccolo in the UEA Symphony Orchestra and alto sax in the Jazz collective.
From my childhood I have been exposed to the multifaceted nature of music. From singing hymns and songs to learning the foundations of dance through the complex rhythms found within traditional African music. I have always had a good understanding of not only the importance of music, but how it shapes our personal lives and the wider society.
Some of my favourite genres of music include old-school R&B and my favourite as a dancer is Gqom as I love up-tempo music with an infectious beat. I also enjoy writing and composing music and that is one of my favourite hobbies.
I have been fortunate to have a wide variety of experience when performing across different settings, and as a performer, I am keen for the opportunities that are available here with UEA music and I am eager to show more of what I have to offer.