Classical pianist Miffy Wang has been awarded the prestigious 2025 Ossa Music Prize with a program highlighting the works of Tasmanian composers.
Honours student Miss Wang will receive a cash prize of $5,000 and financial support of $8000 to fund a tour of regional Tasmania.
"It's a huge milestone in my life where I am incredibly grateful to be recognised as a musician, and I'm really excited to be touring across Tasmania with this really heartfelt program by Tasmanian composers," she said.
Miss Wang's performance in the concert final at the University of Tasmania's Conservatorium of Music included works by Tasmanians Don Kay and Maria Grenfell. It also included original paintings by art student Audrey Carter commissioned for the project.
"It feels really special to be taking a Tasmanian composer program across the state," Miss Wang said. "It's also a wonderful opportunity for me to collaborate with Audrey because it brings a refreshing idea to the concert format and allows us to bring a multi-sensory experience to the audience."
On an evening of high-quality student performances at the Hedberg, Miss Wang took the prize over classical duo Reuben and Zachary Allen, and singer/songwriter Christian Palencia.
Judging panel chair and Lecturer in Contemporary Music Dr Damien Kingston said Miss Wang's high level of musicianship, interpretation and the concept for her project had been impressive.
"All of the applicants were really strong and it's just great to see some really strong performers being able to present in a professional environment in a beautiful bespoke space," he said.
"Competitions are always a pretty high-stakes environment, so to be able to share your musicianship, share your craft with an audience and navigate that experience is super valuable for young performers."
