Every musical instrument has its own personality, and according to ACG Parnell College’s Renia Shang, the flute is her perfect match.

The remarkable 10-year-old became captivated by the instrument when she first saw it played on stage, and since starting lessons two years ago, her musical mastery has gone from strength to strength. Not only is Renia currently working towards her ABRSM Grade 8 flute exam, but she has also earned herself a string of accolades. 

At the recent 2021 SAPACS (South Auckland Performing Arts Competition Society), she was awarded the Scott McDowall Cup for Most Promising Woodwind competitor (any age) for the second consecutive year. She was also named runner-up champion in the general instrument 11 years and under category, and the flute choir ensemble she’s part of also achieved first place in their class.

Renia’s efforts in 2020 were equally impressive. In addition to the collection of prizes she won at the 2020 SAPACS competition, she also gained first place at the 2020 Crescendo International Music Competition (Little Mozarts) – a win that in a pre-Covid world would have seen her heading to New York to perform at Carnegie Hall.

“I am proud of all the prizes I have received and all of my on-stage performances,” says Renia.

“When I play music, I always try to tell a story so that the audience can understand what I’m trying to say even if they don’t know the music I’m playing. I try not to think of my performance as a competition but rather as a way to bring music to my audience. Music is an art, and art exists in the heart.”

It’s not surprising she’s such a star. Renia spends two hours each day practising, and even more in the lead up to competitions. But with her sights set on eventually becoming a professional flautist, it’s time she is more than willing to dedicate.

And if that wasn’t enough, playing the flute isn’t her only musical outlet. Renia also plays the piano, has just started learning the viola, and is about to sit her RAD ballet Grade 5 exam – and when it comes to ACG Parnell College’s vibrant music programme, she is an enthusiastic supporter.

“I love seeing students showcase their musical potential across a range of instruments at ACG assemblies and school music competitions, but the flute is definitely my favourite. I believe every instrument has its own personality, and the flute is my ideal fit.”