The 2026 Composition Prize attracted a strong field of entries from pupils in S4 to S6, showcasing a wide range of styles, influences and creative approaches.

This year’s competition was judged by former pupil and singer-songwriter Dexter Fawcett (Class of 2017), who assessed the entries and shared his expertise. Shunna K Y (S5) won the 2026 competition for his piece, “Conscience”, and will be presented the official award at the prize-giving ceremony in June.

Reflecting on their work, Shunna said: “I'm thrilled to be getting this award for the second year in a row. It's great to have been able to deliver on the original idea I had and to convey the emotion behind the song. I would like to thank Mr Pearson and Mrs Hanna for the support that they provided while I was creating the song!.”

Two further compositions were recognised for their quality and creativity. Oliver B (S5) received a Highly Commended for “Now that you’re gone”, and Alejandro G (S5) was also commended for “With you”.

Dexter commented: “It was a privilege to be asked by the Principal Teacher of Music, Mr Pearson, to judge the near impossible task of selecting a winner of the Tom Michie Prize for Composition for 2026. Having first taken an interest in composition in a senior school music classroom at the College, I was very grateful to be able to be a part of this decision, and listen to these fantastic original pieces by the pupils. Had I been entering one of my secondary school compositions from my time at RGC, I would be swept away by this year's competition, as the standard that was submitted was so impressively high. I hope all of the composers that submitted pieces for this year continue to create music in their remaining time at the College and beyond.”   

Mr Pearson, Principal Teacher of Music, added: “Dexter had the unenviable task of choosing a winner from these excellent compositions. The pupils worked very hard and have created unique, well-crafted pieces that they should be genuinely proud of.” 

The Tom Michie Composition Prize is awarded for the best original composition, arrangement or improvisation by a pupil from the Senior School. It was donated by Mrs Sheena T Michie in memory of her husband, Tom Michie. Born on 1st September 1904, he attended Robert Gordon’s College from 1916 to 1921 after joining from Kittybrewster Primary School. Mr Michie was a well-known local musician and poet who lived at Watchmaker’s Cottage in Tarves. A former President of Aberdeen Bach Choir, he was also a member of Haddo House Choral Society and served for 33 years as organist and choirmaster at Tarves Parish Church and Haddo House Chapel. In addition to his musical contributions, he was a keen sportsman and Captain of Gordonians’ Hockey Team across multiple seasons. He passed away on 30 June 1992.