Seven talented solo performers from local secondary schools treated an audience at Elgin Academy to a magical evening of music as they competed in the inaugural final of Moray Young Musicians.
Edward Clark, a pupil at Forres Academy, was announced as the winner by the panel of adjudicators – Alistair Hardie, retired musical director of the Culbin Singers; Council Leader and Chair of Forres and District Pipe Band, Cllr Kathleen Robertson; and Jane Ferguson, a retired specialist music teacher.
He will now travel to the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland in Glasgow in May to represent Moray at the Scottish Young Musicians Solo Performer of the Year final.
Runner-up awards were presented to Lossiemouth High School’s Thomas Main (drum kit) and third placed Izzy MacPherson (tuba), a pupil at Milne’s High School.
Cllr Robertson, said:
“It was a real privilege to be there to hear such talent and all the finalists should be incredibly proud of themselves.
“The high standard of playing made the task of selecting one winner from seven excellent performances very difficult.
“We wish Edward every success as he goes forward to the national competition – I’m sure he will do Moray proud.”
Also taking part as regional finalists were: Abigail Campbell (bagpipes), Buckie High School; Tomasz Meszka (trumpet), Elgin High School; Finlay McLuckie (piano), Elgin Academy; and Arwen Burns (violin), Speyside High School.
The competition was organised by Moray Council’s Music Service with the support of music/expressive arts principal teachers and music instructors.
