Kennet school pupil named musician of the year

Lucy Beach judged ahead of 250 entrants

A KENNET School student has added another string to her bow after being named the school’s musician of the year.

Around 250 pupils auditioned for the school’s musical accolade and the finalists were:

Adam Flack, Guitar Player of the Year.

Grace Butcher, Brass Player of the Year.

Anna Palmer, Vocalist of the Year.

Evie Hicks, Piano Player of the Year.

Lucy Beach, Strings Player of the Year.

George Groves, Percussion Player of the Year.

Emma Beach, Woodwind Player of the Year.

Ayden Carver, Most Promising Performer.

They were judged by the chief executive at Berkshire Maestros and a supporter of Kennet School, Lynne Ellis, and the head of music at Little Heath School in Tilehurst, Elysia Roberts.

During the deliberations the audience were entertained by Ben Copeman with sonata for flute and piano by Poulenc and the Berkshire Maestros Academy Saxophone Ensemble, the latter featuring Kennet pupils.

After a great deal of professional argument and discussion Lucy Beach was named musician of the year.

The headmaster, Paul Dick, said: “Congratulations to all those, once again, who auditioned and particularly to Lucy, the winner.

“Thank you to the music department, ably led by Mrs Robertson, for the great support they give to our musicians.

“Thank you to the judges for making such an excellent contribution to the evening.”

He then asked the mayor of Thatcham, Sheila Ellison, to present the cup and token from Hogan’s Music for £250 to Lucy.