Eurovision stage beckons music graduate

Dami Im was a top performer while studying music at The University of Queensland – and now she’s facing the performance of a lifetime.

The graduate from the UQ School of Music was announced as the Australian representative to the Eurovision song contest 2016 in Stockholm.

The honour comes after winning the X Factor in 2013 and releasing an ARIA-topping single and album.

The announcement was made by Eurovision winner Conchita Wurst alongside Guy Sebastian, who represented Australia at Eurovision last year.

Dami graduated from UQ’s School of Music in 2009 with a Bachelor of Music, earning first class honours in Music Performance.

One of her former chamber music teachers Professor Patricia Pollett said Dami was much more than a singer, and in fact, majored in piano.

“Most people would know Dami for her great voice, but she’s also a very talented pianist,” she said.

“Dami was very dedicated and got top marks in almost everything she did.”

 

The secret’s out! I’ll be heading to Stockholm to represent Australia at 2016 Eurovision! Get ready Sweden... Australia is coming!!! ❤️ #SBSEurovision

A photo posted by Dami Im (@damiim) on Mar 3, 2016 at 3:02am PST

Professor Pollett said Dami’s training in classical music was clear in her pop performances.

“We once worked on the Shostakovich piano trio together, which is a very dramatic piece,” she said.

“I think Dami brings that same theatrics and drama to her singing performances.”

Head of UQ's School of Music Professor Margaret Barrett said Dami took every advantage of her time at UQ.

"We are very proud of Dami's achievements and the way she is crafting a career in music," she said.

"She tapped into the resources of the school and used them to build a solid foundation in musicianship and performance."

Dami has a list of honours at UQ, including;

2006

• UQ School of Music piano prize Dean’s Commendation List for high achievement

2007

• Dean’s Commendation List for high achievement

2008

• UQ School of Music piano prize
• Dean’s Commendation List for high achievement

2009

• 4MBS Musica Viva Sid Page Memorial Prize in Chamber Music as part of chamber group ‘Ebony Trio’
• Placed in the Lev Vlassenko Competition – an internationally recognised, prestigious competition held biannually in Brisbane
• Dean’s Commendation List for high achievement
• Faculty of Arts Scholar

Media: Casey Fung, c.fung@uq.edu.au@uq.edu.au, 3346 7887.