Pupils hit the high notes in Inspiration Trust’s inaugural Piano competition

Nearly 40 pupils from our primaries, secondaries and sixth forms took to the stage this week to showcase their talents playing piano in our first competition to focus on the instrument. The second musical event of the year, the piano competition was an opportunity for avid players across the Trust to impress the adjudicators and gain more experience performing in front of an audience. 

All performances were extremely impressive, with pupils at a variety of different grades competing throughout the day. As one of the most popular instruments to learn in our schools, there was an excellent range of songs and techniques. Pupil performances were split into those currently working on their graded exams (Graded Exam Repertoire), and an Open Classes category for those pupils who wished to gain more experience in a competitive environment. The music performed in both categories were split into music grades, with a winner from each grade.

Winning entries were decided by a panel of music professionals, consisting of our very own Director of Music, John Stephens, and Jen Flatman, Business Development Manager, from Trinity College London.  A full list of winners and comments from our adjudicators are below.

WINNERS

Graded Exam Repertoire:
Initial: Otis (Charles Darwin Primary)
Grade 1 - Grade 2: Lexi (Cromer Academy) 
Grade 3 - Grade 4: Jamie (Jane Austen College)
Grade 5 - Grade 6: Ivvis (Hethersett Academy)
Grade 7 - Grade 8: Jack (Thetford Academy)

Open Classes:
Pre-Initial: Darcy (Great Yarmouth Charter Academy)
Initial: Megan (Thetford Academy)
Grade 1 - Grade 3: Ryan (East Point Academy)
Grade 4 - Grade 6: Jacey (Wayland Academy)
Grade 7 - Grade 8: Moon (Sir Isaac Newton Sixth Form)

Duet: 
Secondary: Jack and Richards (Thetford Academy)

John Stephens, Director of Music, said:

“It was a privilege to listen to so many talented and enthusiastic musicians across the Trust. All pupils should be extremely proud of their performances and the progress they have made in their musicianship. This was a fantastic first competition and my thanks go to all pupils and staff involved.”

Inspiration Trust is committed to giving our pupils the opportunity to explore music and encourage them to gain confidence in their skills. We are proud that so many pupils across our family of schools entered the competition, competing in a supportive environment, and showcasing their amazing talents. A big well done to everyone involved in the competition!