“Phenomenal”, “superb”, “unbelievably good”, “exceptional” – these are just some of the words that have been said around school today, describing last night’s (February 9th) Instrumental Music Festival Finalists’ Concert.
The annual concert is a firm favourite on our Music Department’s events calendar, and last night’s celebration was no exception. Musicians in Years 9-13 had been battling it out in a series of heats since the start of term and, as ever, the level of skill, flair and commitment showcased by our students has been so admirable.
The competition has been fierce, with so many students deserving a place to perform in Ely Cathedral. But it was James Barber (Alto Saxophone), Thomas Strudwick (Organ), Anna Ost (Cello), Maxime Prince (Drum Kit), Polly Casey (French Horn), Thomas Strudwick (Piano), Thomas Bateman (Trombone), Samuel Trueman (Organ), Lily McCallum (Cello), Ben Kittoe (Jazz Guitar), Lauren Booth (Flute), Samuel Trueman (Piano), and James Schoenberg (Guitar), who made it through to the finals!
The concert was held in the intimate South Transept of the Cathedral, and we were delighted to welcome James Randle, Director of Music at King’s College School, Cambridge, as our Adjudicator for the evening.
Every student performed to an impeccable standard, although sadly, Lily was not well enough to do so. Get well soon, Lily! After much deliberation, Mr Randle announced the following:
- Thomas Strudwick – Winner of the Hunter Cup for Intermediate Piano.
- Anna Ost – Intermediate Instrumentalist of the Year (Walser Cup).
- Samuel Trueman – Senior Instrumentalist of the Year (Walser Trophy).
The new-for-2023 House Cup, which is in recognition of the most points accumulated by entries into the festival, went to Wilkinson House.
Congratulations not just to our winners and finalists, but to every single student who has taken part in the festival. And kudos to our Director of Music, Neil Porter-Thaw, and his stellar team for nurturing and supporting our instrumentalists to this astonishing level. Bring on the Vocal Festival after half term!