An Outstanding Evening of Musical Talent
The final of the Beacon Young Musician of the Year 2026 was an outstanding evening of music-making, with pupils performing an impressively varied programme spanning musical theatre, Baroque music, jazz-inspired repertoire and highly demanding instrumental works. We were also pleased to welcome our talented adjudicator, Mr Ian Runnells, whose warm and encouraging comments provided valuable advice and encouragement to all of the performers.
The audience was treated to everything from Tom T’s cool saxophone sounds of Careless Whisper and Rocky D’s energetic drumming, to beautifully lyrical singing and some exceptionally polished instrumental playing. Highlights included Sam H’s touching performance of Pie Jesu with its beautifully controlled high notes, Alex L’s elegant Handel performance, and a highly proficient oboe performance by Nisaja D of a demanding work by Nielsen featuring excellent tuning and musical control. Shay N also showed some incredibly mature and sensitive musicianship on piano.
Musical theatre also featured strongly during the evening. Christopher D performed Electricity from Billy Elliot with relaxed confidence and excellent communication, while Hunter O gave a fantastically assured and theatrical performance of, You’ll Be Back from Hamilton, earning him the Highly Commended award.
Congratulations go to this year’s Beacon Young Musician award, Jimmy C, whose outstanding piano performance of the technically demanding Popcorn combined dynamic contrast, intricate rhythmic control and tremendous precision throughout. We look forward to hearing him perform at Speech Day!