It’s been a whirlwind for Newmarket’s Jessica Tang, who only began performing as a singer in front of audiences in January, but will be performing in the CNE’s Rising Star Competition later this month.
The seven-year-old will be showcasing her vocal talents in front of thousands of CNE visitors.
“I feel good and excited,” Jessica said. “I just like singing so much.”
“She loves to sing when people are around,” added Jessica’s mother, Tinky. “Even at home when she wants to practise she needs everyone to sit there and watch her.”
While there is a competition aspect to it, for Jessica and her parents it’s more about the experience and fun she’ll have performing for a large crowd.
“To her, it’s just another performance,” said Tinky. “She doesn’t know about the competition part and she’s always just trying to do her best every time. We just want her to enjoy singing and have fun.”
Jessica has always loved music, particularly Disney songs, and her favourite thing to do is perform them for her family.
“She really likes the song Part of Your World; that’s the one she’ll compete with,” said Joshua, Jessica’s father. “When my wife plays Disney songs, they really move her and with this song it made her cry because she was so moved. That’s why she picked that song.”
That love for singing was passed down to her from her parents, who both enjoy singing around the house.
“She’s a very musical person,” said Joshua. “Our whole family always sings, I sing in the shower and I’ll just start singing for no reason. So, I think that love for singing has rubbed off on her, as well.”
After taking lessons, Jessica’s coach recommended she try singing in a music festival and that’s what led her to solo performances.
“She’s just natural,” said Tinky. “She was nervous the first time with a live pianist, but then the second time it was just… boom, she was a natural and so happy.”
“We were so proud of her when we saw she didn’t have stage fright,” added Joshua. “A lot of people get stage fright, but she just seems to enjoy it. It was really surprising, but we’re so happy she’s found her passion.”
Her solo performances have quickly led to success with her winning a gold medal at the Newmarket Voice Festival, Aurora Performing Arts Festival, Yips musical festival and first prize with honours at an international youth music competition.
“It’s a great journey,” said Joshua. “We found her passion and her talent matched and we just want to nurture her and see how far she can go. To see her develop and learn is a very great thing.”
Winners for the 2023 CNE Rising Star Competition will be announced Sept. 2 and 3. Learn more about the competition here.
