Two Sistema NB Graduates Named to CBC Music’s Classical “30 under 30”

Every summer, CBC Music celebrates Canada’s brightest emerging classical musicians through its annual Classical “30 under 30” list.

The list recognizes young artists who are already making their mark on Canada’s classical music scene; winning major competitions, studying at leading music schools, premiering new works and inspiring audiences across the country. Many alumni of the list have gone on to establish successful careers as performers, composers, educators, and artistic leaders.

This year, we are incredibly proud to celebrate not one, but two Sistema NB graduates who have earned a place on that prestigious list.

We don’t believe that’s a coincidence. It is a reflection of what can happen when youth are given the opportunity and support to discover their full potential. At Sistema NB, we see every day how music builds confidence, resilience, discipline, friendships, leadership, and a sense of belonging. While only a handful of students will go on to perform on some of the world’s greatest stages, every young person can benefit from the opportunity to discover their strengths and pursue excellence through the experience of learning and performing orchestral music.

This year’s recognition of Daniel Milliea and Kalvin Rowe is a celebration not only of two remarkable musicians, but also of the teachers, families, communities, and mentors who have supported them throughout their journeys.

Read the full article by Robert Rowat and Isaac Page from CBC Music

 

Daniel Milliea

At just 15 years old, Daniel Milliea of Elsipogtog First Nation is the youngest musician named to CBC Music’s Classical “30 under 30” list this year.

Daniel’s journey began at the Sistema NB Centre in Elsipogtog, where he first discovered the viola under the guidance of longtime Teaching Artist and Centre Director Swan Serna. From those first lessons, his talent, dedication, and thoughtful approach to music quickly became evident.

Today, Daniel is a member of the New Brunswick Youth Orchestra, but his path has already taken him far beyond New Brunswick.

In December 2025, after placing in the prestigious American Protégé International Talent Competition, Daniel travelled to New York to perform the second movement of Telemann’s Viola Concerto at Carnegie Hall, an experience many musicians only dream of.

Throughout his musical journey, he has spoken about the importance of representing his Mi’kmaq community and hopes that his experiences will inspire other Indigenous youth to dream big.

Kalvin Rowe

At 18 years old, Kalvin Rowe has already established himself as one of Canada’s most promising young clarinetists.

Kalvin’s musical journey began in Grade 1 at the Sistema NB Saint John Centre before progressing to the Saint John Youth Orchestra and, in Grade 6, the New Brunswick Youth Orchestra, where he spent seven seasons developing as a musician.

Along the way, Kalvin earned numerous awards, including the grand prize at the 2025 FCMF National Music Festival. As a member of the NBYO, he performed in Chicago and at Carnegie Hall, where he served as Principal Clarinet during the orchestra’s New York performance.

Kalvin is entering his second year at The Glenn Gould School on a full scholarship, where he continues his studies with renowned clarinetist Joaquin Valdepeñas. Spending the summer back home in New Brunswick, he is working to save for a professional-level clarinet as he prepares for the next stage of his career.

Kalvin hopes to one day perform in a professional orchestra, but he hasn’t forgotten where his journey began. Reflecting on his time in Sistema NB, he said, “Without Sistema, I wouldn’t be the musician I am now.”

Congratulations, Daniel and Kalvin. Your entire Sistema NB family is cheering you on, and we can’t wait to see where your musical journeys take you next!