Recital Competition Final

Uppingham's annual Recital Competition Final took place on Sunday 29th September, as six talented Upper Sixth pupils competed for the trophy in front of a warm and appreciative Parish Church audience.

We were delighted to welcome to Uppingham the renowned cellist, music educator, and Principal of the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, Julian Lloyd Webber, who served as adjudicator.

All six pupils gave highly commendable and enjoyable performances; Tim Tian's poised rendition of Weber's Bassoon Concerto was a grand opening to the proceedings. He was followed by Amaya Butler, whose varied programme and mature musical performance was met with much enjoyment. Flautist William Lithgow closed the first half with a beautifully controlled Andante by Bach, and a sparkling Sonatina by Lennox Berkeley.

Following a light refreshment, Francesca Banks took to the stage, with an engaging selection of art-song, and a not so serious rendition of The Alto's Lament, which Professor Lloyd Webber recalled as perhaps the most entertaining delivery of the afternoon. Joshua Law captivated the audience with his performance of viola music by Reger, Debussy and Prokofiev, before Jay Kim's eclectic programme covering Fauré to Gilbert and Sullivan brilliantly captured his versatility as a performer.

After a highly entertaining afternoon of music making at the highest standard, Professor Lloyd Webber awarded the Recital Competition Trophy to William Lithgow.

Many congratulations to all involved, and special thanks to the accompanists, Mr Smith, Miss Stevens and Mr Clements, for their support, hard work, and equally wonderful performances.