This week we celebrated the musical talent across our Senior School with the final of Young Musician of the Year. 

The preliminary rounds took place in February and like many other school events the concert style finale moved to an online event. The finalists recorded their performances, liaising with accompanists as appropriate. Two independent judges, Pauline Black and Ewen Ritchie, both well known in the Aberdeen music scene, had the unenviable task of choosing a winner for both S1-3 and S4-6. 

Mr Haggart shared: “Huge congratulations are due to all the musicians who performed in very unusual circumstances. Well done to our S1-S3 (Junior) winner Jonathan and our S4-S6 (Senior) winner Tito.”

Pauline Black said: “It is fantastic the event has continued and adjusted really well to the circumstances. All of the performances communicated well to the virtual audiences. The two we chose as the winners we thought were particularly successful at taking us on a musical journey through their use of dynamics, expression and tone control. Overall very well done to all.” 

Tito (S5), Voice commented: “The experience has been very strange, nerve racking and a little stressful but a good opportunity to learn how to adjust to unexpected circumstances. I have loved taking part in Young Musician of the Year and I am glad we can still go ahead with it despite the situation.”

Anna (S6), Voice highlighted: “While it was disappointing not being able to perform in an evening concert, this virtual competition has shown us yet again the wonders of online learning. As we were able to perfect our performances, this experience has truly allowed for a spectacular showcase of musical talent.”

Caitlin (S3), Violin added: “I was sorry that the competition couldn’t go ahead as originally planned. Playing along with a recording in my living room was a strange experience, but I enjoyed seeing everyone’s performances in the virtual concert.”

Thanking the community, Mr Haggart summarised: “Thank you to all the performers for their enjoyable performances. To their teachers, families and friends, who have guided and supported them along the way. A broader thanks should also go to the entire Music Department for the way they have kept the music playing during lockdown.”

Watch the full performance for the Young Musician of the Year.