It was a cold Wednesday evening in the Whitchurch High School Dutch Barn, which meant only one thing – it was that time again for the annual Cardiff Rotary Young Musician of the Year competition. Usually Llanishen only has one entry in the competition, however, we had an entry in both the vocal and instrumental competitions, gratefully sponsored by the Llanishen Rotary Club.
The vocal competition was first with Ruben Kelman singing for Llanishen, who was ably accompanied by Mr Dwyer. The judges commented on Ruben’s ‘rich baritone voice’, and someone who is ‘powerful and confident in the higher range’. Mr Grimstead thought that his rendition of ‘Stars’. from Les Miserables was stunning. We then moved onto Bryn Pitt-Pladdy on the piano, who was entered into the instrumental category. The judges said that Bryn performed with a ‘lovely tranquil feel’ and ‘captured the mood really well’ with a ‘free, lovely swing to the music’.
Although neither Ruben or Bryn placed in their respective competitions we are incredibly proud of them for performing in front of two professional adjudicators and audience of parents and performers. The standard was ridiculously high, so for them to be playing alongside (and holding their own) within a such a group of competitors is fantastic. They represented the school, and the Rotary, really well. Good job boys.
Mr M Grimstead
Lead for Initial Teacher Training
Subject Leader of Music
Llanishen High School