Purcell Violinist Reaches BBC Young Musician Grand Final

We are thrilled to announce that Year 12 violinist Shlomi has made it through to the final three contestants of the BBC Young Musician of the Year 2024 competition!

Shlomi, along with fellow finalists Ryan Wang (piano, 17) from Canada and Jacky Zhang (piano, 16) from Surrey, earned their places in the final after advancing through a highly competitive semi-final round. The announcement was made on Sunday 13th October, during the BBC Four and iPlayer broadcast – available here. (Shlomi 54:03)

The Grand Final was recorded at the Bristol Beacon on 24th September, and highlights will air on BBC Two and iPlayer on Sunday 20th October, with the full event being broadcast on BBC Four, BBC iPlayer, Radio 3 and BBC Sounds. The finalists will perform concertos accompanied by the BBC National Orchestra of Wales, conducted by Ben Gernon.

Shlomi‘s performance and dedication have brought him to this incredible milestone, and all at Purcell wish him the very best of luck in the final!


(Image: BBC/Betsan Evans)
 

Purcell Student Wins Revelation Award

We are delighted to announce that Year 10 pop and commercial singer Lia has won the Revelation Award at her hometown’s Radio Annual Awards (Gala da Rádio Vizela). This fantastic achievement highlights Lia’s growing talent and success in the music industry. We are incredibly proud of her accomplishment and look forward to seeing her continue to shine!
 

Purcell Students Triumph at Elland Silver Band Slow Melody Competition

On 5th October, the Elland Silver Band in West Yorkshire revived their Slow Melody competition for the first time since 2019. This event challenges brass players to perform slow, lyrical solos, emphasising the importance of expressive playing, which is often overshadowed by fast, technical pieces.

Purcell students Skye (Y11, baritone horn/trombone) and Glyn (Y7, trumpet) both claimed first prizes in their respective age categories—16 & Under and 11 & Under. Skye was especially delighted to see her name join the past winners’ list on the trophy, which includes none other than Purcell’s own Head of Wind, Brass and Percussion, Mike Cavanagh!

Skye and Glyn also teamed up with Rhys (Y12, trumpet) and Nick (their dad, bass trombone) to compete in the Open Quartets category. The group performed excerpts from Schubert’s String Quartet No. 14, Death and the Maiden, arranged for brass quartet by Rhys and Nick. Competing in an experienced field, they achieved a commendable 4th place, with Nick notably being the fifth youngest competitor in the entire section!

Congratulations to the entire ensemble on their impressive achievements!