Senior instrumentalists show their skills in NYBBS solo competition

Congratulations to the podium finishers in yesterday’s NYBBS senior solo competition at Strathallan School.

Taking the top spot was Isla Gillespie on cornet, runner-up was Freya McLeman (soprano) and in third place was Emily Kroegler (baritone).

The trio were chosen by adjudicators Alan Fernie and John Boax, with Gina Baker providing excellent piano accompaniment throughout the contest.

The 21 competitors were Ross Annan, David Orr, Iris Deane, Isla Gillespie, David Bone, Roxy Clark, Tyler Clark, Freya McLeman, Beth Gourlay, James Grassick, Kristof, Emily Kroegler, Matthew Coates, Angus Crompton, Seren Strong, Ross Gilchrist, Eilidh Boyd, Kirsten MacLean, Heather Shiels, Andrea Crumlish and Noah Parks.

Earlier in the day, the official photographs of the summer course participants took place.

On Monday, after a day of the bands working hard in sectionals and full rehearsals, everyone came together for a quiz night. Participants mixed across all three bands – Children’s, Reserve and Senior – in an event which provided the perfect opportunity for everyone to get to know each other in the spirit of friendly competition.

Many thanks to Reece Gordon for this update from NYBBS 2026