Highland Young Musicians end year on a high note

After a day of intensive rehearsal and performance, six of the ten entrants for Sunday’s Highland Young Musician of the Year took part in the public final.  The judges awarded violinist Helena Rose from Lochaber High School first prize and the Richardson Trophy for Musical Excellence. Millburn Academy’s Hector Waudby-West (double bass), was placed as runner-up.  The ‘Most Promising Talent’ award was given to Laura Keen, a flautist who also attends Millburn Academy in Inverness.

The competition is now in its fifth year and Helena, at the age of 13 is the youngest winner so far.

The Highland Council’s Music Development Officer, Norman Bolton paid tribute to the dedication of the performers and acknowledged the support of all those involved in supporting their musical education and development.  The event was held at, and generously sponsored by The Drumossie Hotel, Inverness with support from The Highland Council and Friends of Highland Young Musicians.  Norman also thanked the judges for creating a relaxed and supportive atmosphere throughout the day – an important element of this particular competition.

In their closing remarks, the judges commented on how impressed they had been at the high standard of musicianship shown by all the participants throughout the day.