Off the back of our special reunion episode last week, our second season of 2025 starts on 3MBS this week with performances from saxophonist Tom Lowe and pianist Mia Gu. Tom and Mia will perform works by Albeniz, Ravel, and Granados, plus an Australian premiere of a work by Melbourne-based composer Max Kielly before receiving advice from our mentors. Continue reading to learn more about Tom and Mia.
Tom Lowe
Saxophone
Tom Lowe is a 20-year-old Australian saxophonist currently based in Amsterdam. He is pursuing classical saxophone studies at the Conservatorium van Amsterdam under the mentorship of renowned saxophonists Arno Bornkamp and Willem van Merwijk. Tom began playing the saxophone at age nine and quickly distinguished himself as a dynamic performer. He has earned numerous accolades, including first prize in the Winds section of the Hephzibah Menuhin Memorial Awards and the title of 2023 3MBS Victorian Young Performer of the Year. He was a finalist in the Preston Symphony Orchestra Concerto Competition and secured second place in the VCASS Outstanding Soloists competition. Committed to his artistic growth, Tom actively performs and collaborates across Europe and Australia. Prior to his studies in Amsterdam, Tom was mentored and taught by various prominent Melbourne based saxophonists such as Justin Kenealy, Niels Bijl, Yoyo Su, and Joseph Lallo.
Tom will perform:
- Isaac Albeniz: Asturias
- Max Kielly: We May Never Meet Again – Australian Premiere
With associate artist Max Kielly
Mia Gu
Piano
Mia Gu, a 12-year-old pianist from Melbourne, began her musical studies at the age of six with Saran Xian Qin. Now in Year 7 at Caulfield Grammar School, she has developed into a thoughtful and expressive young musician, earning recognition in competitions from local to international levels.
She has performed at venues including the Sydney Opera House and Federation Square, sharing her interpretations with audiences. Her appearances in concert series have offered further opportunities to refine her artistry and deepen her musical understanding.
Beyond the piano, Mia is a dedicated athlete, competing at the national level in cross country and triathlon. This balance of musical excellence and athletic discipline shapes her unique artistic voice. Recently she has been selected into Team Vic and will compete Australia cross country championship this month.
Mia will perform:
- Maurice Ravel: Jeux d’eau
- Enrique Granados: Allegro de concierto op.46