Young Pianists Shine in a Day of Musical Excellence

For the third year, pupils from primaries, secondaries and sixth forms across Norfolk and north Suffolk came together for a day of music! More musicians than ever before took part, with over 60 pupils performing at the iconic Assembly House in the heart of Norwich. Included in our extended music offer, the Piano Competition is part of a series of musical events during the year where avid players have the opportunity to take part in something catered to their music specialism and gain more experience performing in front of an audience.  

Pupils not only had the opportunity to play on a Steinway Model C grand piano, enhancing their experience and receiving a taste of what it is like to play on one of the best pianos available, but also gained entry to one of the most historic buildings in Norwich! The Assembly House stands on land that was once crofts and fields on the outskirts of the Norman settlement in Norwich’s French quarter, with the Music Room being one of the most regal rooms in the House with its stunning chandeliers and minstrel’s gallery. 

All performances were incredible, with pupils at a variety of different grades competing at their appropriate levels throughout the day. As one of the most popular instruments to learn in our schools, there was an excellent range of pieces and techniques. Pupil performances were split into those currently working on their graded exams (Graded Exam Repertoire), and an Open Classes category, for those pupils who wished to gain more experience in a competitive environment.  

Winning entries were decided by a panel of music professionals, consisting of Inspiration Trust’s very own Director of Music, John Stephens, and Jen Flatman, National Development Manager, from Trinity College London.  A full list of winners and comments from our adjudicators are below. 

Winners 

Graded Exam Repertoire Classes:  

Initial: Oscar L (Wayland Academy) 

Grade 1 - Grade 2: Kyrylo K (King Edward VII Academy) 

Grade 3 - Grade 4: Eason C (Norwich Primary Academy) 

Grade 5 - Grade 6: Eryk L (Hethersett Academy)  

Grade 7 - Grade 8: Richards O (Thetford Academy) 

Open Classes: 

Beginner: Thomas G (Jane Austen College) 

Elementary: Harriet L (Jane Austen College) 

Intermediate: Toby K (Jane Austen College) 

Advanced: Jacey C (Jane Austen College) 

Post Grade 8: Alex B (Jane Austen College) 

Own Original Composition Classes:  

Secondary: Peter M (East Point Academy) 

Duet Classes:  

Secondary: Elysia & Kyan B (Jane Austen College) 

Performance of the Day: 

Alex B (Jane Austen College) 

John Stephens, Director of Music (Inspiration Trust), said: 

“Congratulations once more to our courageous pupils and their determined teachers. The benefit of the work being done by all is bearing fruit. Congratulations to all who performed and, of course, a special ‘well done’ to those who managed to win their section, or to have been deemed as having given the ‘Performance of the Day’.

 

Thanks go to Jen Flatman for her third visit with us to adjudicate, and to Trinity College London for releasing her to take part – it’s a collaboration of which we are proud. Bravo tutti! See you next year!” 

Jen Flatman, National Development Manager (Trinity College London), added: 

“What an Inspirational event! It’s a joy to be able to adjudicate such amazing young musicians from across the trust. I very much enjoyed all of the performances, and it was a great morning showcasing the young talent in the area. Well done to all performers!”