
PYMOTY

Monday was headed up by Woodwind, Brass and Percussion performances, adjudicated by trombonist Felix Fardell. Tuesday was Strings day, with expert judging from professional chamber musician and cellist Eliza Millett. On Wednesday, the pianists impressed Faith Leadbetter, West End pianist. Finally, Thursday was dedicated to the vocalists, with Kate Royal, professional Mezzo Soprano, offering invaluable insight. We were incredibly fortunate to have such distinguished professionals guiding and encouraging our musicians throughout the competition.
The winners and highly commended students for each category were as follows:
Woodwind/Brass and Percussion (Judge: Felix Fardell):
• Initial Class Winner: Beth P, ‘He’s a Pirate’ – Zimmer
• Intermediate Class Winner: Francesca K, ‘Allegro ma non troppo’ – Lefevre
• Highly Commended: Eloise M, Celeste F-M and Kitty A.
• Advanced Class Winner: Charlotte G, ‘Hypnosis’ – Ian Clarke
• Highly Commended: Katarina K, Imogen H, Isabel B
Strings (Judge: Eliza Millett):
• Initial Class Winner: Alma G, ‘Velvet Ring’ – Big Thief
• Highly Commended: Alisa V
• Intermediate Class Winner: Matilda J, ‘Rondo’ – Goltermann
• Highly Commended: Celeste F-M and Anika A.
• Advanced Class Winner: Catherine P, ‘La Source’ – Hasselmans
• Highly Commended: Lara H, Thea J, Alma S
Piano (Judge: Faith Leadbetter):
• Initial Class Winner: Sarah-Joy Q, ‘Sparkling Splashes and Smooth Water’ – Arens
• Highly Commended: Minserh K
• Intermediate Class Winner: Meher B, ‘Rumba Toccata’ – Harvey
• Highly Commended: Ginevra B, Zuzanna M
• Advanced Class Winner: Ann Claire H
• Highly Commended: Thea J, Kitty A, Chloe G
Voice (Judge: Kate Royal):
• Initial Class Winner: Ariana H, ‘Thank you for the Music’ – ABBA
• Highly Commended: Isla H
• Intermediate Class Winner: Imogen H, ‘There are Fairies at the Bottom of our
garden’ – Lehmann
• Highly Commended: Anika A, Georgia W, Esra K and Sasha W
• Advanced Class Winner: Charlotte G
• Highly Commended: Clemmie P, Thea J

Gala Concert
The week culminated in the much-anticipated Gala Concert, a celebration of the week’s incredible musicianship. This final event was adjudicated by Head of Performance from Alleyn’s School, Jonathan Beatty, who had the difficult task of selecting the overall Young Musician of the Year. The prestigious title was awarded to Year 11 Catherine P for her breathtaking performance of ‘La Source’ on the harp.
A huge congratulations to all participants for their hard work, dedication, and outstanding performances. The standard this year was truly exceptional, and we are already looking forward to Young Musician of the Year 2026!