Child music prodigy from B'luru makes waves in Toronto contest

BENGALURU: Child music prodigy Polavarapu Saadya, a fifth-grade student studying in Bengaluru, has secured first place in the Young Musicians category for 9-10 age group at the prestigious Red Maple Pop & Jazz Competition held in Toronto, Canada. She has also won the 'Most Radiant Voice' award.
Red Maple Pop & Jazz Competition is an annual international music competition held in Toronto, drawing participants from across the world.So far, the competition has witnessed 3,000 participants from 70 countries.
Guided by Ekaterina Paniukova, CEO of Pulsar Music Red Maple Music, Saadya showcased her remarkable talent and passion for music, leaving the judges and audience in awe of her performance. Saadya is the first Indian to participate in the competition.
Daughter of Dr Swaira Rao and Dr Siri Krishna, Saadya's dedication to honing her craft has been evident since the age of four when she began her music journey, learning both Carnatic and western vocal techniques under the guidance of Shri Phaniraj Guru and maestro Ashley Williams.
Her first public performance was during the first Brahmotsavam of Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy temple at Yadadri, Telangana. She was the youngest of all the performers. The following summer, Saadya was invited to perform at Carnegie Hall, New York - the most iconic performing arts space.
Saadya has been invited to perform at the winners' recital and the award ceremony, scheduled to take place in Toronto on August 9.