The Open (Grade 7+) category of our annual Instrumental and Vocal Performance Competition saw about 60 performances in the first round, followed by a brilliant Finals evening, adjudicated by oboist Rachel Ingleton in the Great Hall.  

The section trophies were awarded to Phillip, whose alto saxophone playing showed 'buoyancy and crisp articulation'; Billy for his 'intense and eloquent' Debussy on piano; Alexandra for two 'communicative and compelling' songs from musicals; Dominic for two 'convincing and varied' performances on percussion; and Leo for his 'vivid, extrovert' playing of cello music by Cassado.  Evie was presented with the Outstanding Performance Award for her 'flexible, authoritative and detailed' account of York Bowen's Viola Sonata.  

Well done to all pupils who took part and particular congratulations to the finalists and winners.  The Beginner, Elementary and Intermediate categories of this year's competition take place in May.