A huge honour for Allora local pianist Oscar Briggs who has been accepted into the Queensland Conservatorium of Music, Griffith University in Brisbane. At the age of 3 years Oscar started learning and playing the piano with music teacher Lesley Telford. Now aged 18 years Oscar is living the dream with an aim to be a composer for film, tv and video games. Read the full story of Oscar Briggs as told by his proud music teacher Mrs Lesley Telford. 

Oscar – a pianist from an early age

Eighteen year old Allora local young man Oscar Briggs, has been learning and playing Piano since his Pre-school days.

In recent years he decided to further his study with Piano and Theory Examinations, attaining very high standards. While a student at both Allora State and Warwick High he was also an accomplished French Horn player and member of the school bands. As a Year 12 student in 2024, Oscar was awarded the Grand Champion at the WHS Musical Showcase Extravaganza for his outstanding and skillful Solo and accompanying performances.

His parents, Steven and Tracey have always supported him to follow his dream and after much preparation, Oscar applied and auditioned at the Queensland Conservatorium of Music, Griffith University at South Bank in Brisbane recently. His aim is to be a composer for film, tv and video games. He also presented the panel with three of his own compositions. Overjoyed when he was accepted with an offer, he is now in a position to start his highest preference of a Bachelor of Music degree in February 2026. The judging committee expressed absolute delight and pleasure to see his talent and passion shine.

To honour his achievements, I am organising a “Recital Afternoon” in the New Year with an open invitation to the wider public to enjoy a wonderful afternoon of Piano, featuring Oscar’s flare and passion performing a variety of styles from Jazz, Movie Themes, Classical, Modern pieces and Ballads. (He will also perform in the Pavilion on Saturday 7th February at the 2026 Allora Show.)

Congratulations Oscar.
Lesley Telford.

Footnote from Oscar’s parents Tracey and Steven Briggs

“Oscar’s achievement belongs to Mrs Telford also for sharing her own love of music with hundreds of local students for over 40 years. For nurturing Oscar’s curiosity and love of piano though Covid and cancer treatments. Thank you Mrs Telford for giving a musical and performance legacy that spans generations.” 

This article appeared in the Allora Advertiser, 26 November 2025.