Classical Musician of the Year Competition 2025
The summer term began on a high note as we welcomed the distinguished conductor and viola player Dan Shilladay – also a member of the acclaimed Berkeley Ensemble – to adjudicate this year’s Classical Musician of the Year Competition.
This much-anticipated event is open to any pupil performing at Grade 5 level or above, with entries across five instrumental categories: woodwind, brass, strings, voice, and piano/percussion. With over 35 talented musicians taking part, the standard was as high as ever.
After a competitive afternoon of performances, Mr Shilladay selected two outstanding pupils from each category to perform in the afternoon’s grand final:
- Brass: Charlotte (Year 9) and Isaac (Year 12)
- Woodwind: Maisie (Year 12) and Tallulah (Year 12)
- Strings: Goncalo (Year 11) and Claire (Year 7)
- Voice: Myla (Year 8) and Sean (Year 13)
- Piano/Percussion: Hasan (Year 8) and Erdem (Year 10)
Throughout the day, Mr Shilladay praised the pupils’ musicality, poise, and technical mastery, remarking on the remarkable level of performance across all categories.
We are delighted to announce the winners in each section:
- Brass: Charlotte (Year 9)
- Woodwind: Tallulah (Year 12)
- Strings: Goncalo (Year 11)
- Voice: Sean (Year 13)
- Piano/Percussion: Erdem (Year 10)
And a special congratulations to Erdem (Year 10), who was named Overall Classical Musician of the Year 2025 – a richly deserved accolade in a field of exceptional talent.
Many congratulations to all who took part for their hard work, dedication, and outstanding performances!
-Mr C Janz, Director of Music
