Strings of Grace: Chee Jing’s Journey to Musician of the Year
- WOMCO
- Jul 26
- 3 min read
Grace Joy Chee Jing was awarded the Annual Grand First Prize in the Talent Category and named Cellist of the Year at the London Young Musician 2025 Annual Competition.
Could you tell us a bit about yourself, your music training journey, and your goals for the future in music?
Hi, my name is Grace Joy Chee Jing, and I’m 11 years old. I live in Singapore and attend Voice of the Cello Music School and The Methodist Girls’ School (Primary). I started learning the cello when I was six under Ms. Natasha Liu, after being completely captivated by the sound of the instrument during a visit to a music shop. Since then, music has become a constant in my life, something that challenges me, excites me, and helps me express emotions I can’t always put into words. I practise a few hours each day and have learned a lot about patience, focus, and creativity along the way. In the future, I hope to keep performing, deepen my understanding of classical music, and continue growing as a cellist wherever that may take me.
The London Young Musician annual competition requires a newly recorded performance video completed in a single take. Could you share more about your award-winning performance of Rondo in G Minor, Op. 94 by Antonín Dvořák, which you recorded especially for this competition? What inspired you to choose this piece, and how did you go about preparing for the recording?
Rondo in G Minor by Dvořák was both challenging and rewarding to learn. I was drawn to its energy and contrast; some parts are fiery and dramatic, while others are more lyrical and reflective. Preparing for the competition with my teacher Ms. Natasha Liu took a few months, and we spent a lot of time working on the details, from bow control to phrasing and tone. Because the performance had to be done in one take, I practised full run-throughs to stay focused and consistent. By the time we recorded it, I tried to stop overthinking and just let the music speak for itself.
What did a typical day of practice look like for you, and in what ways did your family support your musical journey? How do you manage your time between training and schoolwork?
Most days, I start with finger exercises and scales to warm up before moving on to technical work and the pieces I’m preparing. Before a competition or concert, I’ll usually do more full run-throughs to build stamina and confidence. I plan my own practice schedule and try to be consistent, even when things get busy. My family is very supportive; they always encourage me and remind me to keep the joy in what I do. School can be demanding too, so I try to finish my homework early so that I have enough time and energy left for music in the evening.
Would you like to share your experience of participating in the London Young Musician competitions, and are there any individuals you’d like to thank?
Taking part in the London Young Musician competitions has been a meaningful experience for me. Hearing performances from other young musicians around the world reminded me how much there is to learn and be inspired by. Winning the Grand First Prize came as a surprise, and I’m truly grateful for the recognition. I’d like to thank my cello teacher, Ms Natasha Liu who has helped me grow through every challenge, and my family, who have always been there for me. I’m also thankful to the organisers for creating such a thoughtful platform for young musicians like us.
Is there anything else you would like to say to musicians and music enthusiasts around the world?
Music takes time, focus, and a lot of commitment, but it’s also something that brings a lot of joy. I think it’s important to stay dedicated and take pride in the progress you make, even when it feels slow. Every piece you learn teaches you something new, and that’s what makes the journey meaningful.
Biography
Grace has been playing the cello since she was six years old. Her musical journey began when she curiously peered through a shop window at a finely crafted cello, knowing in that moment what she wanted to devote herself to. Under the guidance of Ms. Natasha Liu from Voice of the Cello, Grace is discovering the joy of channelling her emotions through music. She has since won several awards, including the Gold Award (Under 10) at the Singapore Raffles International Music Festival 2024, the Gold Award (Under 10) at the Golden Classical Music Awards 2023, First Place (10–11 years) at the Cheer Taiwan International Music Competition 2025, First Place with Judges’ Best Performance Award (Junior Category, Cello) at the Vienna Virtuoso Music Competition 2025, and most recently, the Grand First Prize (10 and under) and Musician of the Year 2025 title at the London Young Musician competition.
