Gabrielle Turgeon, a graduate of Korah Collegiate and Vocational School, recently won the prestigious Orchestre symphonique de Montreal competition. This event, held in mid-November, marked its 86th annual occurrence. Turgeon’s victory comes with a $20,000 cash prize and a $25,000 career scholarship, which she plans to use for travel expenses related to auditions, particularly for roles in Europe.

Turgeon has participated in various competitions, including those organized by the Canadian Opera Company and the Metropolitan Opera. Currently, she is a young artist with the Los Angeles Opera, where she has performed in productions such as "Carmen," "Rigoletto," and "Ainadamar." She also served as an understudy for the role of Despina in Mozart’s "Cosi fan tutte."

To prepare for the Montreal competition, Turgeon focused on managing her nerves and anxiety. "I just really wanted to put all the nerves and all the anxiety to the side and just focus on the expression of the music and enjoying the moment and enjoying singing," she said. She emphasized that her goal was to enjoy the performance, regardless of the outcome. Turgeon noted, "I won’t be disappointed if I don’t win, but I will be disappointed if I don’t express the music the way I want to."

Her performance included pieces by Bellini, Mozart, and Strauss. Turgeon expressed satisfaction with her execution, stating she was "very happy" with how she performed. Her win is seen as a significant achievement, validating her hard work and dedication to her craft.

Turgeon’s journey into classical music began when she learned that Korah would stage "The Phantom of the Opera." Encouraged by her mother, Anne Louise-Turgeon, she took voice lessons to prepare for the role of Christine. Initially focused on musical theatre, she shifted her attention to classical music after her teacher, Agnes McCarthy, introduced her to the genre. "I was absolutely fascinated from the first listen," Turgeon recalled. "I think I connected more to the classical stuff."

Denine Williams, who directed Turgeon in three productions at Korah, expressed her pride in Turgeon’s accomplishments. "From a very young age her voice was amazing," Williams said. She noted that Turgeon’s performances in productions like "The Phantom of the Opera" and "Aladdin" showcased her talent. Williams highlighted Turgeon’s perfect pitch and her ability to convey emotion through her singing.

McCarthy praised Turgeon’s performance at the competition, describing it as "absolutely incredible" and noting the "breathtaking" quality of her voice. She emphasized Turgeon’s deep understanding of the music and her heartfelt sincerity in performance. McCarthy stated, "This win is such a triumph for a singer of her age. Not surprising though, as in addition to her talent and stunning instrument, she has always had an impeccable work ethic, a profound love of the art of singing and drive to be her best."

Looking ahead, Turgeon is set to be a featured soloist in Handel’s "Messiah" on December 18 at the Burlington Performing Arts Centre. Her recent success is expected to open new opportunities for her in the international music scene.