Phoebe has been composing music since she was eight, her father bought home Sibelius, a computer program that helps composers.

Phoebe has composed many songs and competed in five major competitions.

She recently came second in the McDonald's Performing Arts Challenge for music composition with a piece titled Rainforest Jungle.

`It's exciting to know that I am being recognised for something that I love,'' Phoebe said.

``It's a great feeling to hear music you have composed played by others for you.

``I don't do it for the prizes though. I do it because I love it and anything I get along the way is just a bonus.'' As well as being an active composer, Phoebe plays the violin and piano.

Her mother Lisa Gardner said she believes her daughter is truly gifted.

``She has a lot of passion and to be able to write such amazing music at such a young age is wonderful, Mrs Gardner said.

``Her father and I are very proud.''

Phoebe attends The Hills Grammar School, where she is on a full music scholarship.