Episode 3 will see resident mentor – Tamara Smolyar joined by guest mentor Suzanne Johnston as they hear performances from soprano Neeharika Shyju and pianist Stefania Robu. Neeharika and Stefania will perform programmes including works by Quilter, Brahms, Beethoven and Liszt. Continue reading to learn more about Neeharika and Stefania.

---

Soprano Neeharika Shyju

Neeharika Shyju started her musical journey by learning Indian Classical Music when she was 5 years old. At present, she is learning Western Classical Voice at the Victorian College of the Arts Secondary School, taking up Composition as her second study. Along with music, she also takes part in other activities such as debating and speech.

She has participated in many vocal competitions and won prizes. Neeharika was awarded the Lynette-Casey Brereton Award for the Most Promising Voice in the 2022 Ringwood Eisteddfod in Melbourne. Neeharika was also selected for the Artology Composition Program in 2022, where her piece ‘Respect the Land’ was performed by the Queensland Youth Orchestra later that year.

Neeharika will perform:

• Roger Quilter: Love’s Philosophy
• Johannes Brahms: Die Schnur, die Perle an Perle
• John Harbison: It’s True, I Went to the Market
• John Harbison: Where did you go?
• Poldowski: L’heure Exquise?

With associate artist Aidan Boase

---

Pianist Stefania Robu

Stefania is currently working towards strengthening her piano technique, enriching her repertoire and her musical knowledge under teacher Coady Green’s guidance. She is also preparing her AMusA exam which she will sit next month. She approaches mostly classical-style compositions but sometimes explores contemporary works; she believes classical training is essential for every pianist.
Although she aspires to become a surgeon, she is also contemplating a musical degree in the future. A second degree is not just beneficial – it has become a necessity for a successful career later in life.
She is determined to seize every opportunity to perform as this is paramount for her artistic advancement. “The Talent”, proudly hosted by 3MBS, is one of the most highly regarded contests by aspiring young musicians and she relishes the opportunity to perform on the station.

Stefania will perform:

• Ludwig van Beethoven: Piano Sonata No. 8 in C minor, Op. 13 (Pathetique) Mvt. 1
• Franz Liszt: Sonetto 104 del Petrarca

Tune in to The Talent every Tuesday night at 7pm to 103.5FM 3MBS Melbourne. You can also stream the live broadcast at 3mbs.org.au or catch up later on our podcast! Just search for “The Talent 3MBS“ in your favourite podcast app and subscribe.