Twelve-year-old Krys Cox has been learning cello for eight years and flute for two years. The Year 6 Gosford Public School student won the 2023 Central Coast Conservatorium of Music’s Junior Instrumental Scholarship and an Allen Family Scholarship Junior Encouragement Award. Krys learns cello with Heather Hinrichs, flute through the Central Coast Conservatorium School Band Program and is a member of the Central Coast Youth Orchestra.

What instruments do you play? I play the cello and flute.

When did you start learning music? I started playing cello when I was three years and eight months. I also have been playing flute in my school band since 2020.

Why did you decide to play the cello? I had a choice between either violin or cello. I picked the cello because I liked the sound and how it looks.

What do you love about playing music? Expressing my feeling without any words and I like to enjoy my time with “Chocolate” (my cello).

What do you enjoy about being in the youth orchestra? It is great to meet other people who also share my passion of music and hear what a group of young people can play so beautifully in a short period time.

What’s the hardest thing about playing the cello? As a little child who always loves to play with other kids in the park, and do other outdoor activities, it was hard for me to find my time to practice every single day as my mum asked me to.  But now I am much older so I organise my daily schedule.

Who is your musical inspiration? I like to go and watch concerts at the Sydney Opera House and I think Argentine cellist Sol Gabetta is the best.

What has been the highlight of your music career so far? Getting scholarships including the 2023 Central Coast Conservatorium Junior Instrumental first prize and Allen Family Junior Encouragement Award and joining the very talented Central Coast Youth Orchestra.

What do you hope to do in the future? Inspire more young children to try cello because I think that the world is in need of more cellists.

What other instruments would you like to learn? Definitely try a violin or piano  I think.

When you’re not playing – or practicing – what do you like to do? I love to read books and also do sport and exercise.

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