Pimlico flautist chases musical dreams in Seattle development course

A Pimlico flautist who performed for the Townsville City Council shares how an upcoming United States trip could help her achieve her musical goals.

Year 11 Pimlico student, Jorja Pilkington has been accepted into the Pacific Honours Ensemble program in Seattle in November. She performs at the Townsville City Council meeting. Picture: Shae Beplate.

Pimlico High School flautist Jorja Pilkington believes a 10 day musical course in the United States is exactly what she needs to make a breakthrough in her ability.

Jorja is among two Pimlico students that have been accepted into the Pacific Honours Ensemble Program to be held in Seattle in November, and she is raising the awareness, and the $8000 funds she needs to attend the program.

The addition on the Year 11 student’s musical resume could well make the difference in being accepted into her favoured university program, at the Griffith University Conservatorium, considering she would play under world class conductors in professional orchestras.

She was motivated to start playing in Year 4 when watching senior students give demonstrations in music class, and the flute just “stood out”.

“It had the most beautiful sound and it was so shiny and pretty but it was so small as well, and I love how you can have the melody, or you can be supporting other instruments,” she said.

“It’s just become a real passion of mine and it’s always been my comfort hobby.

Year 11 Pimlico student, Jorja Pilkington. Picture: Shae Beplate.

“If I had a bad day I’d come home and I’d play flute and I’d feel so much better, or like, if I’m angrier, I’d play it out.

“I don’t know, I just love sharing it with other people as well.”

Jorja would like to become a professional flautist or a conductor of a professional orchestra, which would require much tertiary study.

Jorja’s request for support came to the attention of Division 8 councillor Andrew Robinson, who invited her to perform at the last council meeting.

After her performance, Mr Robinson and Liam Mooney urged for the council to support the goals of young local talent and “rising stars” such as Jorja.

Mr Robinson said a musical demonstration in a Townsville City Council meeting was unique, and that long term staff who worked more than 25 years could not recall the last time this had happened.

Originally published as Pimlico flautist chases musical dreams in Seattle development course