The Marian Catholic College student has been singing since she was seven years old and has wished that opportunity would knock since she first heard the sweet sound of a crowd’s applause.

Now, after being accepted into a number of music colleges, it looks like doors are about to open for the 17-year-old.

The news comes almost 50 years to the day that her grandfather, Ersilio Frassetto, won a local talent quest, which was reported in The Area News at the time.

In the front page news article the compere was quoted as saying: “That is

a voice that your grandchildren will

probably hear for many years to come”.

“My grandfather died when my dad was only five so the only time I’ve heard him is on a scratchy old tape,” Jessica said.

“But I’ve been told so much about him over the years. I feel as if his gift of singing was passed to me.

“This industry is very competitive and you

need to keep pushing

and trying hard to get ahead, you need a thick skin and I know there have been times I thought about giving up but he is the reason why I continue. He has always been my inspiration.”

While most HSC students waited anxiously for their results on Wednesday, Jessica was feeling pretty relaxed.

“I went really well in the HSC and I’m happy with my results. I’ve auditioned and been interviewed and know that I have been accepted into a couple of universities already,” she said. “In Griffith the opportunities are very limited for singers. So for me to be able to go and develop my passion, which is singing and drama is a dream come true.”

Jessica will head off to study a three-year course in music next year and if determination has any bearing than locals can expect to see this talented vocalist’s name up in lights in the future.