GDST Young Musician of the Year 2016

On Wednesday 10 February, students from across the GDST network performed in the final of the GDST Young Musician of the Year competition.

Students took to the stage in the impressive surroundings of St John’s Smith Square in London, one of the country’s leading concert venues.

They performed in front of a panel of acclaimed judges including award-winning cellist and Oxford High School alumna, Jane Salmon, renowned pianist Peter Hill and conductor, Hilary Davan Wetton.

Over the previous two days the 42 competitors performed in two days of heats at Wimbledon High School, before being whittled down to the final eight who performed in the evening.

The final also featured a world premiere of a newly-composed piece of music written by Grace-Evangeline Mason. Grace won the BBC Young Composer of the Year 2013 and has subsequently had her music played as part of the BBC Proms.

Helen Fraser said:

“Music is such an important part of life in all GDST schools. It is wonderful to see so many young people showcasing their talents at this prestigious event in such a magnificent venue.

“All our schools encourage young people to develop an appreciation for music early in life and I look forward to hearing more from our finalists in the future.

Violinist Mila Ferramosca from Oxford High School was named Young Musician of the Year in the instrumental category and Aliza Vakil from Wimbledon High School won the vocalist category. 

Here’s a short clip of the winners in action. Or, you can follow the action from the whole competition via Storify.

We are very grateful to Wimbledon High School and especially Richard Bristow, Director of Music, for all their work organising the competition.