Godwin Friesen (piano) – Orchestre Symphonique de Montréal Grand Prize Winner, Barbara Bronfman Prize

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Université de Montréal student Godwin Friesen was pleasantly surprised at the awards ceremony for the Orchestre Symphonique de Montréal’s Barbara Bronfman Prize. When the announcer revealed that Friesen was the first-prize winner, he said his “mouth dropped open.”

This pianist’s genuine reaction stemmed from equally humble beginnings. Friesen grew up in an extremely musical household and was even part of a family band. From a young age, he was taught that music is about community, something he believes to this day. Indeed, he seeks “to be someone whose musical performances impact many people, inspiring change and hope.” A storyteller at heart, Friesen’s real desire lies in taking audiences on a journey, sharing a story. “The fact that I can use music to do good for the world makes me want to maximize that good,” he said. “There is so much possibility I have yet to discover!”

Friesen also communicates with his audience through composition. He began writing music around age 7, encouraged by his first piano teacher. Years later, he performed a self-composed fugue at the OSM Manuvie competition. Alongside it, he programmed works by Haydn, Bach, Rachmaninoff, and Canadian composer Marc Hyland. Exploring the contrasts between these works was Friesen’s favourite aspect of his performance. “I love the simplicity and quiet beauty of the Haydn,” he said, “and then the roaring flood of emotions from the Rachmaninoff.” Friesen sees wonder and beauty in each piece he plays, and he hopes to share this with listeners.

Experiencing the francophone culture of Montreal and integrating himself into new communities has made this year especially rewarding for Friesen. A true people-person, he is thrilled to continue on his journey of using music to unite people, drawing their attention away from life’s seemingly unavoidable stressors into a bubble of musical joy.