For the first time, The Talent is pleased to have partnered with Forest Collective to present a special award for an outstanding performance of a 20th/21st Century Work. All Season 2 participants over the age of 16 who performed an eligible work were shortlisted for the prize with saxophonist Terence Liu announced as the recipient during the Season Finale on October 24th. Terence was recognised for his performance of Ryo Noda’s Mai.

Previous Talent mentor – Evan J Lawson is the artistic director of the visionary non-profit artistic company and led the selection progress for this inaugural prize. Asked about the decision Evan said, “Terence stood out…for their virtuosic playing, musicality, and for not shying away from playing difficult music.”

Terence is awarded the opportunity to develop a performance or recital with Forest Collective which Evan pointed out has a strong history of fostering emerging artists: “The chance to bring in a new musician with fresh perspectives and approaches is what really excites Forest Collective to be offering this opportunity.”