HORSHAM musician Kessia Peterson’s dedication to performing arts and music has been recognised with a Richard Morris Scholarship.
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Kessia won the annual scholarship at the Richard Morris Memorial Concert on Saturday, despite not performing in the showcase.
In a busy year, Kessia was involved in Horsham Arts Council’s production of Rent, while completing year 12 at Horsham College.
Kessia said she didn’t perform in the concert because she was sitting her VCE exams at the same time.
“The organisers were very conscious of my workload – organiser Jan Morris knew that if she asked me to play, I would have said yes,” she said.
“However, last year I did perform in the concert and I played an alternate version of Billie Jean by Michael Jackson.”
Kessia played keyboard in Rent, but she also plays guitar, sings and teaches music.
She has been involved with school productions, choirs and performed at numerous events, including weddings, openings and at the Horsham and District Relay For Life.
Kessia said growing up her parents always provided her with every opportunity in their reach, no matter the cost or sacrifice they would have to make.
“Winning the scholarship means I can take a part of that financial load off of them,” she said.
“Winning the scholarship has also meant that I’ll now be able to tackle the oncoming year without having to sacrifice undergoing music lessons to develop my skills, and support myself throughout the year with rent and other living expenses, that aren’t met by my own earnings.”
Kessia plans to move away to study next year, but plans to continue teaching music.
“In the quieter months, the scholarship will ensure I can continue having an income based on my passion,” she said.
Kessia said while it was a busy year with performing and school, it was a worthwhile experience.
“People who know me well know I tend to overload my schedule and workload,” she said.
“While in the middle of exams, I was involved in Rent and this was a monster of an undertaking but the entire time doing this I was deeply supported by the cast and crew, as well as my teachers,” she said.
“In all honesty, I loved it.
“Throughout the really tough and gritty points I try to remember a saying from someone who inspires and motivates me – ‘bite off more than you can chew, and then chew like buggary’.”