Rising Star from Sarawak: Taylor Louise Fong Earns Absolute First Prize at the 2025 Vivaldi International Music Competition
- WOMCO
- 7 hours ago
- 6 min read
Taylor Louise Fong, a young vocalist from Malaysia studying at Sabrina Music Studio, earned the Absolute First Prize in the Youth (Age 11–13) category at the 2025 Season 3 Vivaldi International Music Competition. The competition ran from 19 June to 19 September 2025, with results announced on 8 October 2025. Recognised for her expressive voice and musical maturity beyond her years, Taylor continues to make her mark on the international stage. We had the pleasure of speaking with Taylor to learn more about her journey in music, her inspirations, and her dreams for the future.
Could you tell us a bit about yourself and your journey in music, for example the schools you’ve studied at, the teachers who have guided you, and how long you’ve been studying, as well as your goals for the future?
Taylor Louise Fong:
"Hello! My name is Taylor Louise, and I’m 11 years old from Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia. I began singing before I could even speak. I was born with a speech delay, and singing became the way I learned to pronounce words and communicate — music quite literally helped me find my voice. By the time I was nearly 4 years old, I had overcome my speech delay through singing.
I started learning piano at 6 years old, but I didn’t make much progress until I met my current coach, Madam Sabrina Tnay, when I was 9. From then on, both my piano and vocal skills began to improve steadily under her guidance. That same year, it also marked the true beginning of my formal training and serious musical journey.
I currently study music at Sabrina Music School, where I’m mentored by several wonderful teachers in classical, pop, and musical theatre vocals, as well as piano and choir training.
My goal is to continue growing as a performer and one day study at a world-renowned conservatory, so I can inspire others through music — especially young children who dream big like me."
Which voice performance has been the most memorable for you so far, and what made it so special? How did you prepare for it, bring it to life, or are there any interesting behind-the-scenes stories you’d like to share?
Taylor Louise Fong:
"The most memorable performance for me so far was during the Sanremo Junior World Finals 2025 in Italy. It was a very special moment because it was my first time performing with professional orchestra on an international stage, and it truly felt like a dream come true.
I practiced for months with my vocal coach to perfect my pronunciation, breathing, and emotional expression. I also learned to connect deeply with the meaning of the song so I could sing it sincerely from the heart.
Behind the scenes, I remember feeling both nervous and excited while waiting backstage but I enjoyed chatting with contestants from other countries such as from India, Romania, Argentina, etc. to stay relax.
But as soon as they announced my name, I walked to the stage; closed my eyes, took a deep breath, and let the melody guide me. When I finished, the applause felt magical — it reminded me why I love singing so much. That performance taught me that music can touch people’s hearts no matter the language."
What did a typical day of music practice look like for you, and how did your family support your passion? How do you manage your time between music training and schoolwork?
Taylor Louise Fong:
"A typical day for me usually starts with my Year 7 lessons in the morning, followed by music practice in the afternoon. I spend time working on vocal warm-ups, piano, guitar, and dance, depending on my schedule. I also enjoy listening to both pop, musical theatre and classical music to study phrasing, tone, and interpretation.
My family plays a huge role in supporting my passion. My parents always encourage me to follow my dreams and help manage my classes, rehearsals, and performances. They attend all my performances and competitions, cheer me on, and remind me to stay grounded and grateful no matter what stage I’m on.
Because I’m homeschooled, I have the flexibility to balance schoolwork and music training. I plan my day carefully so that I can complete my studies first and then focus fully on music practice. This balance gives me time to explore creativity while keeping up with my studies."
Would you like to share your experience participating in our competition and anyone you'd like to thank?
Taylor Louise Fong:
"Participating in the International Vivaldi Music Competition has been such an honour. Since it was an online competition, I submitted one of my performance videos, which gave me the opportunity to reflect on my own growth as a singer. Watching and selecting the right performance reminded me how much effort and emotion go into every piece I sing.
It felt meaningful to share my music with judges and musicians from around the world who love music as much as I do. I would like to thank my Mama and Papa for their endless love and sacrifices, my coach and music teachers for always believing in me, and everyone in Kuching who continues to support my journey in music."
Biography
Taylor Louise is a multitalented young performer from Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia, whose passion for singing and musical theatre has brought her to international stages. At just 11 years old, she is earning recognition for her expressive voice, emotional depth, and artistry well beyond her years.
Taylor’s musical journey began with classical vocal training under Madam Sabrina Tnay, a Golden Kenyalang Award-winning choral conductor. She later expanded into pop and musical theatre, developing her stage presence and storytelling skills through intensive training with Sing’theatre Singapore. Taylor also serves as a soloist with the award-winning choir Dolce Chanticleer, where she continues to refine her vocal technique and ensemble performance.
Driven by passion and dedication, Taylor has achieved remarkable success in both local and international arenas. In 2024, she was named Division Champion and received Gold First at the World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA) in Los Angeles. She went on to become a two-time Champion at the Asia Students Arts Festival (ASAF) — first in the Singapore preliminary round and later at the International Finals in Hong Kong (January 2025), excelling in the Pop category among contestants from 17 countries.
In March 2025, Taylor proudly represented Malaysia at the Sanremo Junior World Finals in Italy, where she received a Special Mention in the Pop category and ranked among the Top 5 globally in her age group. Her 2025 achievements continued with multiple international awards, including:
Absolute First Prize – Golden Prestige International Music Competition 2025
Absolute First Prize and Poetic Interpretation Special Prize - UK International Music Competition 2025
Absolute Winner - 9th World’s Best Musicians Competition 2025
Platinum Prize & Masterful Technique Award – World Classical Music Award 2025
Platinum, Gold & Superior Interpretation Award – Saint-Saëns International Music Competition 2025
First Prize with Special Mention (one of the only 9 Top Prize among 60 finalists around the world to win this title) - Bach International Music Competition
First Prize (Pop & Musical Theatre) – Song International Singing Competition (UK) 2025
Champion – Global Arts, Sports & Culture Association’s 67th International Singing Competition 2025
Top Gold Prize (Pop Vocal) – 6th North American Virtuoso International Music Competition 2025
Gold Prize - London Young Musician 2025
.. and many more.
In August 2025, Taylor will represent Malaysia at the ASAF Winner’s Showcase held at the Royal College of Music Britten Theatre in London, performing in both Pop and Musical Theatre categories and receiving Vocal Awards.
She has also made history as the youngest cast member in Sarawak’s first English original musical theatre production, Dreamweaver The Musical by Tanoti, staged at the Petaling Jaya Performing Arts Centre (PJPAC) in Selangor.
Whether performing solo, as part of an ensemble, or representing her country on the world stage, Taylor Louise brings warmth, sincerity, and charisma to every performance. She continues to grow as a bright young voice of Sarawak and Malaysia, inspiring others with her love for music and storytelling.