Congratulations to CJ on winning the RCM Gold Medal for Alberta, Northwest Territories & Nunavut Grade 5 Flute!
CJ’s music education began in the Kodaly music preschool program at 3 years of age and she continued in this program for four years. This introduction to music inspired her to start playing a musical instrument. She was told to possibly try the flute because it was a small and easy instrument for a young child to begin on. Following this advice CJ signed up to take flute lessons from Rosalyn Harms at Forte Music Studio. Rosalyn had a good laugh at the advice CJ was given and told CJ that she had actually chosen one of the most difficult instruments for a young child to start on. This is because it takes an incredible amount of air and embouchure control to even create a single sound on the flute. Despite this CJ practiced hard and really enjoyed learning and playing the flute and taking lessons from Rosalyn. CJ remembers playing Silent Night at her very first Christmas recital when she was seven years old, and this is still one of her favorite songs to play now. CJ started taking Royal Conservatory Exams when she was eleven and is currently working towards her grade six flute practical exam and her grade seven theory exam. In grade six CJ started in the Connect Charter School Concert Band directed by Mr. Andrew Bolen and later joined the jazz band in junior high. CJ chose Bishop Carroll High School for her high school education in part because of the excellent music program. In grade ten she started in the concert band directed by Mr. Chris Herrard and continues to play in this band as well as in flute choir and a wind quintet. In grade eleven CJ was fortunate enough to be a part of the Bishop Carroll Touring Band that was chosen to perform at Carnegie Hall in New York City. Although this trip was cancelled due to COVID the band performed in the Alberta International Band Festival and won the gold award. Playing with this band was an experience not to be forgotten and CJ had a lot of fun rehearsing with this talented group of musicians. Other flute mentors that CJ is especially thankful for have included Mary Sullivan, Margaret Hornet, Ron Proctor (accompanist), and Helen Beach. CJ has especially enjoyed playing “I am The Bird Catcher” by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and “Sicilienne” by Gabriel Fauré. CJ’s favourite composers are Jean-Baptiste Loeillet and Franz Joseph Haydn. CJ’s most recent flute achievement has been winning the gold medal representing Alberta, NWT, and Nunavut for her grade five practical examination through Royal Conservatory. CJ is very thankful for all of Margaret Hornet’s excellent instruction and help in preparing for this level. CJ is performing at the RCM Celebration of Excellence event this November.
“I still love playing the flute, practicing, and taking lessons. I’m not sure where this musical journey will take me but I know that I have enjoyed the process.” CJ Sauve
RMH Music 