The two young composers, who both graduated from Junior Guildhall, spent a year of mentorship with the BBC following their win. This experience allowed them to work closely with mentors and gain invaluable insights into composing for professional orchestras.
Jixuan, who graduated in 2024 after six years at Junior Guildhall, described the mentorship as a "life-changing experience." Working with mentor Gavin Higgins and the BBC, Jixuan learned extensively about composition and the practicalities of bringing music to life beyond the written page. Their winning composition, Away in a Quasar, explores themes of astronomy and nature, written for an unconventional quintet.
Noah, a graduate from 2026 after four years, also found the mentorship with Gavin Higgins to be an "amazing experience." His winning piece, Plus C, inspired by a love for mathematics, is structured in three parts representing the formation of connections. Noah noted the usefulness of workshops with the BBC Concert Orchestra.
Hearing their compositions performed by the BBC Concert Orchestra, conducted by Tess Jackson, was described as "phenomenal" by Jixuan and a "one-of-a-kind experience" by Noah, who had never had a piece performed publicly before. The performances were broadcast on BBC Radio 3 and BBC Sounds.
Reflecting on their time at Junior Guildhall, both composers highlighted the supportive environment. Jixuan particularly valued the Composition Workshop led by Michael Christie and Rhiannon Randle, and one-to-one lessons. Noah enjoyed playing in ensembles as a violinist, which broadened his exposure to repertoire.
Looking ahead, Jixuan is continuing to explore compositional styles and instrumentation, currently working on choral and piano works. Noah is studying mathematics at Warwick University but remains dedicated to music, nearing completion of a clarinet concerto.
They both encourage young composers to draw inspiration from their own lives, experiment, and collaborate. Jixuan finds motivation in exploring the countryside and composing for friends, while Noah is driven by the satisfaction of completing projects.
Junior Guildhall, part of Guildhall Young Artists, is accepting applications for September 2027 from January. More information is available on their website.
