Justin Gao

Justin Gao, 14, began learning piano at the age of six. In 2022, he was accepted into the prestigious Rising Stars Program at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music. After two years of study with Dr Gian-Franco Ricci, he progressed to the highest-level Premier Program, where he continues to develop his musical artistry.

Justin began his percussion studies in 2021 under the guidance of accomplished teacher Sandy Sin. Since then, he has achieved several successes in percussion competitions.
Music highlights include:
• 2026: Highly Commended Prize of KPO Concerto Competition
• 2025: HAOSEN Grand Prize at Marimbafest and 1st Prize of 15 & Under Solo
• 2024: 2nd Place of Ryde Eisteddfod 14 & Under Percussion Solo; 1st Place of Percussion Ensemble Secondary School Age; Gold Award of Australian Percussion Eisteddfod 4-Mallet Percussion Solo (B)
• 2023: 2nd Place of Australian Percussion Eisteddfod Primary Percussion Solo; 1st Place of Ryde Eisteddfod 14 & Under Percussion Solo
• 2022: 1st Place of Australian Percussion Eisteddfod 2-Mallet Solo (C); 3rd Place of Australian Percussion Eisteddfod Primary Percussion Solo

Justin is also passionate about ensemble performance. As a member of the Sydney Percussion Ensemble, he performed at the Boom International Percussion Festival Closing Event in 2022 and the Festival of Instrumental Music Concerts in 2023. At school, he is an active percussionist in the Wind Orchestra, Symphony Orchestra, Symphonic Winds and Chamber Ensemble. He is a recipient of the Music Scholarship at his high school.