Pictured Above: Rotary Ascot | Young Musicians 2024
The Ascot Rotary Club once again held its Local Heat of the Young Musician Competition on Monday January 29th at Heathfield School, Ascot. The competition was split into two events i.e. Young Instrumentalist and Young Vocalist. Because of numerous entrants the competition started at 18.30 and was very well attended. Heathfield School put on a very welcome initial tea and coffee for supporters and Ms Sarah Wilson, Headteacher welcomed everyone attending . The panel of judges comprised Geoff Horton (Head Judge), Linda Hannah-Anderson and Graham Smith.
Schools taking part were: Papplewick, Licensed Victuallers School, Luckley House, Heathfield and St, Mary's Convent
There were six competitors for the Instrumentalist category with four pianists, one clarinetist and one trumpeter. This competition was hard- fought and after a long debate on the part of the judges, Imogen Horrocks, Clarinetist, won the category. She played brilliantly and in particular, excelled in the Allegro Molto by Witthold Lutoslawski - which received special mention. Thomas Haywood, Trumpeter, came second with a spirited rendition of the Hummel Concerto, first movement.
Pictured Above | Winning Vocalist - Archie Wooldridge
Pictured Above| Winning Instrumentalist was Imogen Horrocks (clarinet)
In the Vocalist Category, there were three contenders but the winner was Archie Wooldridge, Baritone, who sang three pieces, the most impressive of which was “Leave me, loathsome light” by Handel.
In both categories there was special mention of Hugo Chen pianist and Sonya Tillbrook soprano.
All competitors were awarded Certificates of Participation and photographed
The host school put on sumptuous canapes in the interval with wine for those not driving and soft drinks for those who were.
Prizes were awarded by Mr Howard Smith, President of the Rotary Club of Ascot and Geoff Horton. The event closed at 21.45 with thanks from RCA President Howard.
Winners in both categories go forward to the next level of competition which is a National Rotary Event each year.