Omara Silvester
My name is Omara Silvester. I am a singer and pianist who loves music, and I want to make music my life. I am delighted to have been chosen to be a Music in Action Young Artist 2024. Music in Action asked Omara why music matters?
At what age did you start making music and how did you start?
II have experienced music from a very young age, as my mum is a music teacher, and all her family enjoy making music. I first began singing with Imogen Nicholls in her pre-school classes, and started singing lessons later on at the age of 7. Since then I have been a part of the Musical Originals Singers, rehearsing on a weekly basis. Imogen is an inspirational singing teacher and I feel very fortunate to have benefited from her tuition from such a young age.
What do you enjoy about performing and what was your favourite performance?
Performing is a way I can share my singing with others, as well as explore music from a range of time periods and contexts. My favourite performance was definitely in the Sacred Section of the Rimini International Choral Competition with the Musical Originals Singers. It is always the best feeling to sing and share such an amazing experience with all my friends, especially singing in such a beautiful acoustic. I have also enjoyed singing in Music in Action’s concerts.
Why does music matter to you?
Music is an outlet for me, and it has also given me both lifelong memories and lifelong friends. I believe music can benefit anyone, as it is a great way to relax, learn new skills, and build up confidence which can all be transferred to other aspects of life.
What is your favourite place on earth?
Obviously Jersey!
Who is your favourite composer?
I love Debussy and his impressionist approach to music, hearing all different emotions and degrees of intensity conveyed through varying dissonance and harmonies will always fascinate me.
Who have been your biggest influences?
The one person who has really fuelled my passion for music is my mum. She is truly passionate about performing and teaching, and we regularly work together both on my solo performances, and singing together in multiple choirs. I’m incredibly fortunate to have someone to look up to and take advice from on a daily basis.
What can we look forward to from you next?
It is a privilege to have been selected as a Music in Action Young Artist, and I’m excited to improve as a musician and take in any opportunities I am given. I am also looking forward to helping others find their music passion, particularly through teaching which I am keen to do in my gap year. We have an exciting concert with Music in Action that I am singing in on 27th January which has some beautiful music.