Musicians performed at Soham Village College on Wednesday for the 22nd annual Young Musician of the Year awards evening.
The event, which recognises talented musicians both at the school and at its feeder primary schools, was started by former head of music Stephen Kenna, who sadly died last year.
The Stephen Kenna award for ‘commitment and dedication to music’ set up in his memory was among the prizes presented - it was the second time this award has been given out and this year it was won by pianist Felix Jewkes who received the award from Mr Kenna’s daughter.
Mr Kenna was head of music at the college for many years and was also assistant principal. He then continued to teach music after his retirement.
The competition is sponored by Soham Rotary Club and this year the adjudicator, who had the difficult task of judging all the young talents, was Richard Cull, head of music at an Essex secondary school.
Young Musician of the Year was won Jacob Cox, who plays the cello.
He received his award from Rotarian Bill Rind and Richard Cull.
Holly Dack and Eliza Collins, were the Key Stage 3 Young Voice of the Year award winner and runner-up.
Tom Kay, drummer and Daniel Perel-Hubbard, pianist, were the winner and runner-up in the Key stage 3 Young Instrumentalist of the Year.
Jake Stearne and Sapphire Locke were the winner and runner-up in the Key Stage 4 Voice of the Year category.
Key Stage 2 winners (primary school entries) were: First: Oscar Vaughan, piano; with fellow pianist Sophie Sadler third; and singer Naomi Stiddar second.
All the musicians performed during the evening and teacher Gemma Perry, head of music at the college, said: “There were some really fantastic performances.
“I am sure everyone who came along really enjoyed the evening and would agree we have some very talented young musicians.”
The school’s website is urging students looking to have instrumental or singing lessons next year to put their names down now.
Budding musicians have until Friday (7) to apply. Entries made after this date will not be processed until January 2018.
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