Brentwood Pianists Shine at the 76th Annual Cowichan Music Festival
The faint scent of aged wood lingers in the air as soft light filters through the stained glass windows of Duncan United Church. A grand piano sits at the front, positioned before the choir stalls, while the adjudicator watches attentively from the first row. Competitors and audience members fill the pews, their hushed murmurs a testament to the anticipation in the room.
Then, the adjudicator calls out your name.
A wave of adrenaline washes over you; your hands shake, your breath stumbles, and your body moves as if a stranger to itself. The piece is announced while you try to recollect your psyche. You remind yourself that you are among your fellow Brentwood students who have worked equally hard to reach this point. Just as the piece begins, you are reminded why you took up the art of piano.
The 76th Annual Cowichan Music Festival recently concluded with seven current Brentwood students not only participating - but also succeeding. Classes at the festival were structured into rounds, each divided by genre and level, such as Level 9 Romantic or Level 7-8 Baroque. At the end of each class, the adjudicator took on a teaching role, offering constructive feedback on dynamics, interpretation, and emotional expression. While their patience and understanding helped ease nerves, performing in front of my peers and competitors remained an intimidating experience.
Ronald Killian, teacher and mentor for all seven Brentwood students, commented on their achievement: “Performing under these conditions is a true test of musicianship. It’s not just about technical skill but also about adaptability, composure, and storytelling. I’m incredibly proud of how each student rose to the challenge and brought their music to life.”
To win a major award and be eligible for the prestigious Highlights Concert, students had to perform a minimum of three pieces at a high level. This year, Nita Q, Mack ’26, was selected for a major award and named a backup provincial representative. Additionally, William W, Rogers ’27, was awarded a major award for his outstanding performances. Reflecting on the experience, Nita shared, “It was nerve-wracking, but in the end, it was incredibly rewarding to see our hard work pay off.”
Brentwood’s musicians left a lasting impression at the festival, demonstrating technical excellence, resilience, and artistry. As another successful year at the Cowichan Music Festival comes to a close, these students continue to inspire with their dedication and passion for music.
Finn D, Whittall ’25