NYBBS students show their competitive streak!

Yesterday at the NYBBS summer school, the young musicians were able to show their competitive streak in a spirit of friendly rivalry when they took to the stage for both the solo contest and the closely-fought Battle of the Sections.

And this year they were performing for a brand new trophy donated and created by one of the house staff for the Children’s Band, Jennifer Cook.

The afternoon’s solo competition was adjudicated by NYBBS special guest Paul Lovatt-Cooper who had the difficult job of choosing a winner from the phenomenal talent on display.

Receiving the coveted Richard Evans Trophy in the senior category was baritone player Charlie Boax with her sparkling performance of Soliloquay by Martin Ellerby, taking the top spot for the third consecutive year. In second place was David Orr, also on baritone, in third spot was cornetist Ash Paton (pictured below with PLC).

The baritones also shone brightly in the Battle of the Sections, conducted by bass tutor Les Neish and performing an arrangement by Viva la Vida. Their winning performance featured a hilarious and heart-warming moment as tutors Sion Rhys Jones and Chris Shanks joined in. The audience and adjudicator PLC absolutely loved it!

All sections brought something unique, creative and entertaining to the stage — with ‘funny awards’ adding extra sparkle, personally presented by Paul.

Course director Carrie Boax summed up the day perfectly when she said she was “amazed and overwhelmed yet again at the incredible talent and dedication shown by both our young people and staff.”

“They continue to create memories and moments that will stay with them forever, proving, as the late great Richard Evans once said, that NYBBS truly is a unique family we are so proud of. Thank you to everyone who made today so magical. Here’s to even more music, memories and fun as the week continues!”

The solo competition participants