TWO talented musicians at Solihull Sixth Form College have won a private music tuition bursary following auditions at an scholarship concert.
First year students David Harris and Notaya Grant, both aged 16 and from Birmingham, shared the top prize for their performances at the Heartfield Wharam Scholarship Concert held at the college.
‘A’ level student David performed ‘Concerto in F, Movement 1’ by Weber on the bassoon, while Notaya, who is a member of the college choir, sang ‘Clown’ by Emeli Sande.
In all 13 youngsters performed challenging solos before the judges, made up of vice principal Janice Hamilton, drama teacher Nadia Kouhi, maths teacher and college choir member Mark Schampier and talented pianist and college supporter Chris Collis.
They praised all the students, but highlighted the extras that really impressed them with David and Notaya’s performances.
Both teenagers win £150 to spend on music tuition from an eminent performer of their choice.
The bursary was set up in memory of two great musicians who strongly supported music in Solihull and at the college.
Roy Heartfield was the first head of music at the college, who died in 1992, while Margaret Wharam was the former head of music at Malvern Hall and head organist at Solihull Methodist Church.
The first winner of this prize was in 1994 and for the last 25 years the scholarship fund has continued.
“Congratulations to David and Notaya for their fantastic performances and well done to all 13 students who auditioned,” said college music teacher Catherine Douglas.
“Live performance is such a valuable experience for our students and I know they were nervous, having not had the opportunity to perform in front of an audience for some time.
“They did themselves and the college proud.”
The next opportunity to hear live music at the college will be at the Christmas Concert on Tuesday, December 14 at 7pm.
