Josh Young - For his end of year WAAPA recital, Joshua Young takes the stage to share the culmination of his journey as a bassist. Beginning on electric bass, he was first captivated by the infectious grooves of Motown, rock, and funk. His time at WAAPA opened new doors into the worlds of jazz, fusion, and country, broadening his palette and refining his musical voice. Shaped by the melodic expression of Marcus Miller, the harmonic daring of Jaco Pastorius, and the modern creativity of Thundercat, his playing also draws inspiration from the driving lines of Geddy Lee, the playful eccentricity of Les Claypool, and the tight, funky precision of Joe Dart. This recital will showcase a dynamic mix of original works and arrangements, spanning heartfelt ballads, groove-heavy fusion, and explosive, high-energy moments.
As he closes this chapter, Joshua invites the audience on a journey through the influences and experiences that have defined his path happening on the 13th of November at 6pm.
Jesse Nguyen - Jesse Nguyen is a guitarist whose playing blends soulful expression with refined technicality. Drawing inspiration from artists such as John Mayer, Mateus Asato, Pat Metheny, and John Scofield, Jesse crafts a sound that bridges genres while remaining deeply personal. His style is shaped by a wide range of influences, including blues, funk, fusion, neo-soul, and gospel, all of which inform his dynamic touch and improvisational voice. Whether through smooth melodic lines or groove-driven rhythms, Jesses music reflects both his love of tradition and his drive to explore new sonic ground.
Come join Jesse as he performs with WAAPA for the last time as he puts on his End of Year Recital and be ready to be surprised by all of the different styles and genres Jesse is ready to play.
Chelsea White - Chelsea White presents her Graduation Recital, a pop performance; fun and full of heart, with lots of sparkle! Chelseas four years at WAAPA culminates in an unforgettable and exciting show which incorporates both original music and the music that has shaped her as an artist throughout her life. Inspired by artists like Sabrina Carpenter, Gracie Abrams, and Taylor Swift, she blends pop melodies with honest lyrics that tell deeply personal stories.
Rosie Dagless - Rosie Dagless presents her graduation recital, diary, a culmination of years of dedicated artistry, vocal refinement, and fearless creative exploration. A multi-talented vocalist and composer, Rosie draws from soul, folk, and contemporary influences to share original music inspired by her own experiences. Her powerful voice and honest songwriting invite the audience into an intimate sound world shaped by vulnerability, resilience, and creative freedom.
Having honed her craft at WAAPA, Rosies recital is not only a celebration of her academic journey, but also a bold statement of her artistic identity. Audiences can expect a vibrant and dynamic program, marked by groove-driven rhythms, emotive vocal performances, and musical intimacy. With an innate ability to fuse stylistic influences into something uniquely her own, Rosie Dagless is an emerging artist to watch.