Flutist Arin Sarkissian and percussionist Andrew Busch have been awarded the 2024 Michael Measures Prizes. The Michael Measures Prize is awarded in a partnership between the National Youth Orchestra of Canada and the Canada Council for the Arts.
The Prize is given to only two young classical musicians between the ages of 16 and 24.
- First Place ($25,000): Arin Sarkissian, Flute (British Columbia)
- Second Place ($15,000): Andrew Busch, Percussion (Ontario)
“We are incredibly proud of Arin and Andrew,” says Christie Gray, CEO of NYO Canada in a statement. “Their exceptional talent and dedication to their craft are truly inspiring. The Michael Measures Prizes play a vital role in recognizing and fostering excellence in the next generation of Canadian orchestral musicians, and these two remarkable young artists embody the program’s significance.”
Arin Sarkissian
Toronto-born Arin Sarkissian is currently the Principal Flutist of the Victoria Symphony. He’s competed in the Michael Measures Prize in previous years, having come in second in 2022, and placed as a finalist on other occasions.
He is the first flutist to win First Prize.
“Many of my musical experiences helped me prepare for Michael Measures. Winning an orchestral audition and winning a solo competition are two different skill sets, and I learn best through trial and error. I have taken so many auditions and competed so many times in the past; sometimes, even when you think you’re going to lose, you somehow end up winning, and the same rings true vice-versa. Acknowledging this unpredictability, I’ve learned to trust in my preparation and let the rest unfold how it will — I can only control what’s in my control!” comments Arin in a statement.
The road to a musical career began when young Arin was looking for a free period back in grade four. That quest led to band class, where his teacher inspired him to work with his love for music. He earned a Bachelor of Music with Distinction in Research and Creative Works from Rice University, followed by a Professional Studies Certificate from The Colburn School.
Along with his full-time position in Victoria, Arin has performed as a guest with the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra, National Arts Centre Orchestra, and Vancouver Symphony. He is working on a solo album.
“NYO recognizes the importance of celebrating treasures of the past while also welcoming the new,” he says. “Through NYO, I found an oasis of resources both in performance and beyond that have proved to be useful throughout my emerging career.”
“In a world of ideological divides and digital takeovers, it’s becoming more and more rare to relish in a sense of live, in-person community,” he adds. “To me, classical music does just that in perhaps the most unique of ways… That unparalleled feeling of connecting so many people in a space to one united focus is the closest thing to a spiritual experience I know.”
Andrew Busch
Andrew Busch also made history with his win, as the first percussionist to take home the second prize.
Andrew recently completed a Master’s degree at the University of Toronto, where he was the recipient of the Canada Graduate Scholarships — Master’s Program award, and a University of Toronto Fellowship.
His journey in music began at a young age, practicing on the drum kit his dad used for weekend gigs. He went on to study piano and trombone, but returned to percussion.
Andrew is a laureate of the 2018 National Music Festival of Canada and the 2020/21 Maritsa Brookes Concerto Competition, and has launched a performing career as both a chamber and orchestral musician in North America and Europe. He has performed at Toronto’s Koerner Hall, Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium, and Prague’s Žofín Palace.
Andrew recalls his feelings when he applied to NYO Canada for the first time. “I was extremely excited to perform in a top-level orchestra with other young, motivated musicians,” he says in a statement. “I had heard stories about the program from friends who participated in previous years, and it seemed like an incredibly positive environment.”
He comments on the win and its significance.
“One of the most challenging things about percussion is the continuation of your career after graduating from a post-secondary institution,” he says. “Throughout school, percussionists have endless access to marimbas, vibraphones, xylophones, glockenspiel, timpani, cymbals, various drums, and the list goes on and on. Once percussionists graduate with their degrees, they suddenly lose access to these instruments, which can make practice extremely difficult.
“I will use the Michael Measures prize money to invest in instruments that I do not currently own, to expand my collection of drumsticks, mallets, beaters, and percussion accessories, and to put money towards future lessons, masterclasses, application fees, and travel for professional auditions. This way, I can continue to develop my technical skills and musicianship while also being in a secure position to prepare for professional orchestral auditions. I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity and for the support of the Michael Measures Prize, and pledge to use 100% of the prize money towards career development as a professional percussionist.”
Hear The NYO Canada Live On Tour
NYO Canada’s 2024 Horizons Tour will spotlight Arin Sarkissian performing Einojuhani Rautavaara’s Flute Concerto ‘Dances with the Winds’. The program will also include Bartók’s Concerto for Orchestra and Sibelius’s Symphony No. 2 in D Major, with tour dates that begin July 18 in Kingston, and end July 31 in Calgary, hitting Toronto’s Koerner Hall on July 19.
Tickets and full tour details [HERE].
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