Xaverian College students proved their talent in the Xaverian College Young Musician of the Year Competition. With 21 entries from the Music A Level course and across the College, the standard of performances impressed the judges with all students performing to a high professional standard. 

The judging panel for the competition, that consisted of Xaverian College music teachers, and peripatetic instrumental tutors, eventually picked John Millar as the overall winner with his Saxophone performance of Henri Mancini’s ‘Days of Wine and Roses’. Richard Bond was awarded second place, followed by Charlie Fretwell and Laura Gilmour in joint third place and Henry Parsons who was awarded ‘Most Improved Young Musician’. 

John, former pupil at Chapel-en-le Frith High School, said: “It was great hearing everyone perform. The experience was so much fun, and it was a privilege to win amongst such fantastic musicians!”

Henry added: “The Young Musician of the Year Competition was a great experience for me. It really helped me develop my confidence and performance skills.”

The competition has been running for many years and aims to assist students in their preparation for conservatoire and university auditions and give students invaluable performance experience in front of a live audience.

Andy Levendis, Director of Music at Xaverian, said: “This year’s event was a huge success with families, friends and teachers attending to listen to the performances. The students were amazing and they should all be proud of their performances.”

Xaverian music students are currently preparing for the Xaverian Christmas Showcase concert on 10 December at the Royal Northern College of Music. Tickets are available by calling in at Student Services at the College, or tickets can be bought using Parentpay.

As one of the largest providers of post-16 education in the region, Xaverian College offers an extensive range of A Levels in addition to several BTEC courses.