Eastbourne’s very own young soloist competition

From: Merton CoxPresident, Eastbourne Symphony Orchestra
Eastbourne Symphony Orchestra's young soloist of the year competition 2018 SUS-180130-114041001Eastbourne Symphony Orchestra's young soloist of the year competition 2018 SUS-180130-114041001
Eastbourne Symphony Orchestra's young soloist of the year competition 2018 SUS-180130-114041001

I read with interest the pice within the Guide section of a recent edition of the Eastbourne Herald, promoting a new music competition within the county, Sussex Young Musician of the Year.

For more than 30 years, Eastbourne Symphony Orchestra has, as a result of the 11th Duke of Devonshire’s financial generosity, ran a young soloist competition which takes place every January/February at the Birley Centre in Carlisle Road.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The competition is open to all instrumental musicians aged 23 and under, most of whom come from various music colleges around the country and abroad and play to very high standards.

The competition has two rounds. During the first round competitors present a 15-minute performance of a contrasting programme of their own choice.

From this first round of 30 to 40 musicians, the panel of judges choose five to take part in the final round where they present a 20-minute performance of two contrasting concerto movements.

With a first prize of £1,000, the winner also has the opportunity of performing a concert with the ESO. Other monetary prizes are awarded and every finalist receives a cheque.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Next year’s competition at the Birley Centre is on the afternoon of January 23 and 24 (first rounds) with the final at 2pm on Sunday February 14.

An audience is welcome at both the first rounds and the final. I look forward to seeing you there. Full details are available from www.eso.org.uk

Related topics: