Young Musician Competition - Vocalists

On Wed 14th November, six competitors took part in  the Rotary Vocal Competition which took place at Cowbridge School . We were all entertained to a wonderful evening with such a variety of talent and lovely choice of songs. The contestants were Tara Nathan, Luke Treadwell, Megan Lorrie, Poppy Hinkin Evans, India Maurice and Rhianna Hogg , all choosing contrasting pieces to illustrate their vocal capacities.

There were three experienced judges who had the difficult job of choosing first, second and third positions Helen Mays, and experienced teacher and one one time participant in Cardiff Singer of the World Competition, Wyn Pencarreg, a Welsh baritone who has sung with the Glynbourne Opera and who is now singing with the Welsh National Opera and Jeff Davies  who ran the Music Services in Vale of Glamorgan as well as directing the Youth Choir.
Whilst the judges were deliberating their choices, we were entertained by Head of Performing Arts at Cowbridge Comprehensive, Mr Adrian Colborne and his jazz musicians, who gave lively and rhythmic renditions of famous jazz numbers. Our thanks go to the talented Mr Colborne for all his wonderful accompaniments and support of his pupils.

Finally, the winners were announced. First position went to to Rhianna Hogg, who gave a confident interpretation of songs by Schubert, Mozart  and Cy Coleman, with the judges appreciating her ' lovely, mature sound'. Second position went to India Maurice for her 'good understanding' of the songs she chose, which included a very touching ' Daddy's son' by Flaherty and Ahrens. Third position went to Tara Nathan for her interpretation of Panis Angelicus( Franck) and 'I could have danced all night' by Lerner and Loewe.
Gareth Rees, President of Llantwit Major Rotary Club presented the winners with their prizes and John Clarke, who had introduced each singer, brought the evening to a close with his thanks to everyone involved. 

The whole competition illustrated how vital music is in the lives of youth today.