Excellence awards for Warwickshire’s young musicians
Warwickshire County Council’s music service has developed a new awards scheme to benefit talented young musicians in Warwickshire schools.
Auditions for the new two-tiered award programme from the County Music Service took place in June and successful members are ready to start this month. The first tier is open to gifted and talented musicians who have lessons through the service and have reached the minimum standard of grade 3 in their chosen instrument.
Pupils are recommended by their teacher for entry to the scheme and must audition with the director of the service and the area manager for their part of the county to get the award. Successful pupils will be entitled to an additional 15 minutes of free tuition per week on top of their normal lessons.
The second tier is for entry into the Scholars Academy. There are 10 places in the academy each year for young musicians who have achieved grade 5 or over. To join the academy students undergo a rigorous audition process which tests their all round knowledge of music theory as well as ability.
If they pass they will be entitled to extra tuition with a specialist teacher. They will also receive special master classes and perform in a high profile concert during the year.
Craig Gilchrist, a 16-year-old scholar from Nuneaton, said: “Being an academy member entitles me to 30 minutes of free tuition for each lesson, giving me more time with my teacher to develop and improve my skills. Through the scheme I will also take part in workshops, local and county bands and the area choir which introduce more rounded aspects to my abilities.
“Music is fun and you can get involved whatever age you are. It can be a really rewarding career if you have the commitment to your instrument. To really succeed you need passion and determination and to put your heart and soul into playing. You can reap great rewards, it’s good for your CV and performing to an audience is a great feeling.”
Andrew Atkins, director of the music service, said: “It is vital we recognise and support our young musicians throughout their whole educational career from the beginner player through to our high flyers.
“Our Academy students will be well prepared for music college and to continue with their music after leaving school. If we can help them on their musical journey then it can only be for the benefit for all of us.”
Membership of the scheme lasts for one year and the application process for entry for September 2010 will begin in May 2010 giving new pupils the chance to apply.
To find out more about what’s on offer from the County Music Service, visit http://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/musicforlife or call 01926 742630.