20 teens from across Massachusetts competing to perform with Boston Pops
BOSTON - Twenty talented, young musicians from all over Massachusetts are competing for the role of a lifetime to be a featured artist on stage with the Boston Pops.
After 107 high schoolers from across the state sent in video auditions, the 20 teens were selected as finalists for the Fidelity Investments Young Artists Competition.
"A dream come true"
"Ever since I was really little, I've loved singing and dancing and acting and all of that. It would be such a dream come true," said musical theatre performer Elizabeth St. Louis. "With Keith Lockhart and on top of that Sutton Foster as the guest artist. She's an inspiration to all musical theater kids."
For many of these musicians, the opportunity is bigger than themselves. Sure, it's a shot to showcase their talents, but also to share their culture. Dilzafer Singh has been playing the North Indian tabla for 12 years.
"I always dreamed of playing at such a venue. It was nerve-wracking, but it was also really exciting to share this distinct tradition with the judges," Singh said.
"I know there's a Tibetan community around Boston and we're a very underrepresented community. I feel like that's my mission with this," said Grace Cai, playing the yangqin.
Four winners will perform with the Pops
Four winners will receive coaching from the pros, before taking the famous stage at Symphony Hall on June 4.
"These kids are just incredible, their talent," said Director of Artistic Planning Dennis Alves. "One of our winners last year, she's at Berklee now. Most of them are out in the world doing something great. It gives one hope for the future."