Bermuda Philharmonic Society Hosts Inaugural Student Music Competition

The Bermuda Philharmonic Society took to the stage to encourage and challenge young local musicians through its inaugural Student Composition and Concerto Competition, held on January 21st. This event aligns perfectly with the Society's commitment not only to present classical music performances but also to foster the development of Bermuda's future talents.

A Platform for Budding Musicians

Kate Kayaian, the president of the Bermuda Philharmonic Society (BPS), emphasized the importance of such competitions in offering the young participants invaluable stage experience and preparation for international challenges. The standard set by the participants in this first edition of the competition was notably high, especially impressive given their young ages.

Young Virtuosos Showcase Their Skills

The competition was fierce and showcased tremendous talent, with 11-year-old Bella Correia winning first prize in the concerto category. Correia, a violin student at the Menuhin Foundation studying under Alison Black, received a $500 prize and the opportunity to perform solo at the 'Rising Stars' Concert. Her performance will feature the Accolay Concerto no. 1 in A minor.

In the composition segment, 15-year-old Dylan Jeffrey took the top honor with his piano solo piece 'La Lune à Midi,' which will be performed at the 'Art of Music' chamber music concert at Masterworks Museum in April.

Recognition of Musical Excellence

The second and third prizes in the concerto category went to Prince Domingo, 13, for his viola performance, and Odin Flanagan, 11, for his rendition of Beethoven on the piano. The talent-filled event left audiences in anticipation of the upcoming Spring Concert to be held at St. John's Church, encouraging all to mark their calendars for the performance dates on March 16th and 17th.

Bermuda, Competition, Talent