Gabrielle Turgeon Triumphs at Montreal Competition, Secures $45,000 in Prizes

Gabrielle Turgeon, a graduate of Korah Collegiate and Vocational School, has achieved a significant milestone in her musical career by winning the prestigious *Orchestre symphonique de Montreal* competition. The event, held in mid-November, marked the **86th annual** iteration of the competition and culminated in Turgeon receiving a total of **$45,000** in prizes, which includes a **$20,000** cash award and a **$25,000** career scholarship.

For Turgeon, the competition was not just a test of talent but also a challenge to manage her nerves. “Performing when the stakes are high is a skill that takes time to develop,” she stated. In her quest to focus on the music rather than anxiety, she emphasized the importance of enjoying the moment. “I really wanted to just enjoy it, regardless of any outcome,” she added, reflecting on her approach to the competition.

To prepare for this important event, Turgeon wrote down her goals, which helped her mentally navigate the rigorous environment of the competition. Her repertoire included challenging pieces by renowned composers such as **Bellini** (*O Quante Volte*), **Mozart** (*Exsultate Jubilate*), and **Strauss** (*Heimliche Aufforderung*). She expressed that winning was less important than her ability to convey the music faithfully. “I won’t be disappointed if I don’t win, but I will be disappointed if I don’t express the music the way I want to,” Turgeon stated.

The financial support from the prize will aid Turgeon in covering travel expenses for auditions, particularly as she aims for roles in Europe. “It’s just a huge help for me,” she remarked, highlighting the practical implications of her win.

Currently in her second year with *Los Angeles Opera*, Turgeon has already taken on significant roles in productions such as *Carmen*, *Rigoletto*, and *Ainadamar*. She also served as an understudy for the role of Despina in Mozart’s *Cosi fan tutte*, where she found herself working alongside experienced artists. “I had to elevate myself to their level,” she explained. “I wanted to elevate myself so that they felt that I was an equal with them.”

Turgeon’s journey into music began with studying the violin, but her passion shifted when she learned that her school would stage *The Phantom of the Opera*. Encouraged by her mother, **Anne Louise-Turgeon**, she took voice lessons with **Agnes McCarthy** at the Northern Arts Academy. Initially focused on musical theatre, Turgeon found a new passion in classical music after McCarthy introduced her to the genre. “I was absolutely fascinated from the first listen,” Turgeon shared, noting her deep connection to classical works.

Denine Williams, who directed Turgeon in several productions at Korah, expressed her pride in Turgeon’s achievements. “From a very young age, her voice was amazing,” Williams said in an email. She was not surprised by Turgeon’s success at the *Orchestre symphonique de Montreal* competition, citing her dedication over the past eight years. Williams highlighted Turgeon’s remarkable pitch accuracy and emotional delivery during performances.

McCarthy echoed this sentiment, praising Turgeon’s recent performance as “absolutely incredible.” She noted that Turgeon’s voice is “full of radiant colour, remarkable agility and shaped with masterful finesse.” McCarthy also emphasized the significance of Turgeon’s win, describing it as “a profound validation of Gabrielle’s hard work, dedication, and immense talent.” She believes this victory will open international doors for Turgeon, allowing her to reach a wider audience.

Looking ahead, Turgeon is set to perform as a featured soloist in *Handel’s Messiah*, scheduled for **December 18, 2023**, at the *Burlington Performing Arts Centre*. As she continues her journey in the world of classical music, her recent triumph serves not only as a testament to her talent but also as inspiration for aspiring musicians everywhere.