Canada’s Rising Stars 20th Anniversary at the Malcolm Hotel

Internationally acclaimed violinist Timothy Chooi, (pronounced as “Chewy,”) has captivated audiences worldwide with his virtuosic and finely nuanced performances. He is highly sought after for his passionate renditions and extensive repertoire, as well as his exceptional ability to connect with a global audience, amassing a media following of millions of viewers who have tuned in to his music.

Charlotte has been exceeding expectations continuously and has won many rewards nationally and internationally. Some of her recent accomplishments include: the recipient of the Ann Southam Senior National Award in 2021, 2nd place at the 2022 Canadian Music Competition, Young Soloist Award and Absolute Frist Prize at the Franz Liszt Centre International Piano Competition 2022, and the 1st prize in the 2022 San Francisco Articial International Piano Competition in the Amateur Category. Charlotte attended the 2022 Morningside Music Bridge program at the New England Conservatory in Boston, Massachusetts.

Melie Inageda, a student violinist, embarked on her musical journey at age 7 and is currently a dedicated high school student enrolled in the Mount Royal Advanced Performance Program in Calgary, Alberta. Melie's dedication to sharing her love for music is evident in her performances at local hospitals, retirement homes, and community events in her hometown of Banff, Alberta. Melie's enthusiasm for chamber and orchestral music has led her to become a member of the Arnica String Quartet, as part of the 2022 Banff International String Quartet Competition's Youth Quartet program. Additionally, Melie holds a position in the first violin section of the Calgary Youth Orchestra. Melie has been awarded several musical achievements, winning prizes at the Alberta Provincial Festival and reaching the finals of the Canadian Music Competition. She continually expands her musical horizons by engaging in masterclasses with renowned violinists and participating in summer programs.

Sofia Fakeley is a Canadian cellist who started at the age of 3 years old. She currently studies with renowned cellists and pedagogues John Kadz and Johanne Perron in Calgary, Alberta. A grade 12 student, also studying in the Advanced Performance Program at Mount Royal University Conservatory, she performs for guest artists regularly, works with an outstanding collaborative pianist, and makes music with other gifted students in chamber groups. Sofia has competed at the Red Deer and Lacombe music festivals nearly every year since 2013 and has been recommended to Provincials many times, taking first place at the age of 12. In 2023 she won both the Young Artists Scholarship Award and the Red Deer Symphony Orchestra Concerto Competition class. Additionally, she has appeared regularly at the Canadian Music Competition. In 2023, she soloed with both the Burman University Chamber Orchestra and the Calgary Civic Symphony.