None
Tuesday, 24 January 2012

A young composer will be able to travel to the United States for tuition with a leading experimental musician after winning the annual Dr Harold Schenberg Prize in Music Composition.

Tiffany Ha, 22 of Maylands, recently completed her Bachelor of Music in composition at The University of Western Australia, receiving a high distinction for her graduation recital and portfolio.  While a student, she formed the music group ‘Granular Synthesis' and her ‘String Quartet Number One' was chosen for the 2012 Breaking Out concert featuring WA's top emerging composer at Perth's State Theatre Centre.

"My favourite group of instruments to write for is a string quartet because it has the range of a string orchestra but with a more intimate feel," Tiffany said.  "I particularly like exploring extended string techniques - such as tapping on the wood of the instrument, tapping the bow against the strings and finger plucking - which can produce very unexpected, otherworldly sounds."

Tiffany has recently finished writing and recording a score for a short film ‘ Strange Clouds ' to be sent to Cannes.

"I'm hoping it will give me some exposure and that other directors may approach me," she said.

While studying with Joan La Barbara composer of the music for the Sesame Street animated film "Signing Alphabet") Tiffany will participate in Bang on a Can, a festival from 9 - 29 July dedicated to adventurous contemporary music.

The Dr Harold Schenberg Prize in Music Composition is part of the late Dr Schenberg's bequest to the University.  Dr Schenberg was a respected Western Australian dermatologist and renowned art collector and donor.  He was an accomplished jazz pianist who played professionally to support himself while studying medicine.

The prize, to be awarded on 31 January at the Callaway Music Auditorium in UWA's School, provides $15,000 to a talented WA tertiary student or recent graduate who, through the prize, has the opportunity to further their studies in composition either interstate or overseas.

Media references

Danielle Loiseau (UWA School of Music)  (+61 8)  6488 3994
Michael Sinclair-Jones (UWA Public Affairs)  (+61 8)  6488 3229  /  (+61 4) 00 700 783

Tags

Channels
Arts and Culture — Awards and Prizes — International — Media Statements — Teaching and Learning — University News
Groups
Arts