Notes From Purcell Newsletter: Winter 2025
24 Hours of Music On The Purcell School’s First Giving Day Outstanding Student Success | The Purcell School Inaugural Giving Day | and much more . . .
CHRIS HARBOUR Director of Development Welcome to the final newsletter of the year, and what a year it has been! This edition contains highlights of events and concerts as well as key achievements by our students and alumni. Each year I am blown away but the sheer amount of activity that is undertaken and this year is no exception. On the following pages, you will read about countless student achievements, external concerts around the country and alumni recitals and appointments. We are excited to share the results of our very first Giving Day, featuring a 24-hour continuous live streamed concert. We have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support for our students in this challenge and I’m delighted to share the final total of funds raised towards the Bursary Fund on page 19. We are delighted to celebrate an unprecedented achievement of Purcell School students at the prestigious BBC Young Composer Competition. Read more about our young musicians winning every age category on page 23. Next year, we will be bidding farewell to Alison Cox, Head of Composition, after an incredible 38 years of service to the School. In true Alison style, we will be celebrating this achievement with a series of special events before her retirement at the end of the academic year. Please see page 21 for a request to all composition alumni to get involved. The School is now closed for the Christmas break and we wish our whole Purcell community a happy festive season. We have not one, but two London dates in the New Year for your diaries: Cadogan Hall, 9th February at 7.30pm and Wigmore Hall, 12th March at 1pm. We hope you can join us there, or at any of our other internal or external concerts next year. In the meantime, season’s greetings and wishing you a wonderful 2026!
c.harbour@purcell-school.org 01923 331131
2 // STUDENT NEWS
STUDENT NEWS // 2
Over the summer, Year 13 pianist Anna won first place in the 2025 Thomas & Evon Cooper International Piano Competition, earning $20,000 and a potential four-year tuition scholarship to Oberlin Conservatory.
Hall in Romania, where he performed Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 3 with the Arad Philharmonic Orchestra under Martin Braun. Just days later, Kevin appeared at Vienna’s iconic Musikverein Golden Hall, performing to an audience of over 1,500, followed by a solo recital at the historic Ehrbar Saal. His tour then continued north to Oslo, where he gave a recital at Marmorsalen Sentralen, one of Norway’s leading cultural venues.
Following her win, Anna attended the Oxford Piano Festival, taking masterclasses with leading pianists such as Kathryn Stott, Arie Vardi, Marios Papadopoulos, and Ashley Wass. She later competed in Switzerland’s Clara Haskil Piano Competition, reaching the semifinals and receiving the Back in the UK, Kevin Jeune Critique (Young Critics’) concluded his tour with two acclaimed recitals at Regent Prize. Hall, London, and Aldenham Most recently, Anna performed Church, Watford, featuring in Paphos, Cyprus, alongside works by Beethoven, Chopin, pianist Igor Andreev and cellist and Ravel. Andrei Ioniță, presenting an inspiring programme of solo Year 13 pianist Teodora spent a and chamber works. vibrant summer performing
and studying across Europe. In July, she joined the Talent Year 11 pianist Kevin embarked Summer Courses in Brescia, on an impressive concert tour Italy, performing in concert and this summer, beginning on 6th working with William Fong and August at the Arad Philharmonic
Karl-Heinz Simon. In August, she travelled to Poland for the Euro Arts Academy in Szczecin, where she gave two concerts and was invited to perform alongside Maiqi Wu, a participant in the upcoming 2025 International Chopin Piano Competition. She also took part in masterclasses with Professors Roland Krueger and William Fong. Year 11 pianist Luca, achieved First Prize at the International Music Festival in Paris this summer. In the days leading up to the competition, Luca attended a masterclass in Brescia, Italy, with Professor Dmitri Alexeev – who also teaches Purcell alumna Magdalene Ho at the Royal College of Music. In Paris, Luca impressed the jury with his expressive and technically assured performances of Rachmaninov and Liszt.
Contents Student News
2
Masterclasses
8
External Concerts
9
Alumni News
13
School News
18
Anna
Kevin
STUDENT NEWS // 3 Year 13 pianist Tracy, has been awarded First Prize at the Asia International Piano Grand Prix Competition. Year 11 pianist Saule was awarded Second Prize at the International Competition ‘Music Without Limits’, and also took part in masterclasses with Professors Aleksandra Žvirblytė and Nimi Ejiri, as well as performing in several concerts. Year 12 pianist Pijus gave a commemorative recital with a programme honouring the anniversaries of Maurice Ravel and Lithuanian composer M. K. Čiurlionis, which was warmly received. Pianists Anthony (Year 11) and Lavender (Year 13) both attended the Albu International Piano Camp in Estonia, where they worked with the renowned Finnish pedagogue Professor Erik T. Tawaststjerna, Emeritus of the Sibelius Academy in Helsinki.
Teodora
Both students performed in a series of concerts, with Lavender also invited to give two further recitals featuring works by Janáček, Chopin and Rachmaninov. Professor Tawaststjerna praised their playing, describing them as ‘very talented, each with a distinct musical personality,’ and noting that they have clearly been taught ‘with utmost care and artistic vision’ at Purcell. Year 12 clarinetist Matilda has been selected for two prestigious opportunities this year. She joins the ABRSM Youth Advisory Board 2025– 26, collaborating with young musicians across the UK to provide feedback and help shape ABRSM’s work in music education, wellbeing, and performance. In addition, Matilda is one of just eight musicians aged 15– 19 chosen for the LPO Young Artist Scheme 2025–26, gaining mentoring, performance, and
Luca
development opportunities with the London Philharmonic Orchestra. As part of the LPO Junior Artist scheme, Matilda recently performed two pieces at the Royal Festival Hall as part of the London Philharmonic Orchestra’s Bright Sparks concert. The LPO also shared a wonderful photograph of her during the rehearsal, seated on stage between Benjamin Mellefont, the LPO’s principal clarinettist and Paul Richards, the LPO’s principal bass clarinettist. Year 13 violinist Julia has been invited to perform at the We Have One World charity concert at Kings Place, London, alongside alumna Phoebe Papandrea, supporting Save the Children UK. This marks her second appearance at the gala.
Year 11 cellist Yoko performed Shostakovich’s Cello Concerto No. 1 at Blackmore
Saule
4 // STUDENT NEWS Musikzimmer Berlin, accompanied by pianist Kensei Yamaguchi. Selected for masterclasses with Professor Wolfgang Emmanuel Schmidt, Yoko joined talented cellists from across Europe and Asia, performing movements from Shostakovich and Elgar. Year 8 double bassist Summer Sky attended the Biarritz International Bass Academy in France, joining talented young musicians from around the world. At the end of the course, she was invited to compete in the International Édouard Nanny Competition (age 11–14). With only three days to prepare, Summer Sky impressed the judges and was awarded Second Prize.
My Favourite Things – Playing with My Harp, which received the RH Prestige Best Composition Award – Pedal Harp (Solo) at the Rave Harps International Prestige Award in Singapore. Stephanie performed her winning piece at the RH Prestige Winner’s Concert at the Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay, and participated in The Arts of Healing Programme, sharing music with patients and the public at Tan Tock Seng Hospital. Tristan (Year 13, pianist) launched a musical outreach project in his hometown in Indonesia, inspired by IMPULSE, our school’s outreach programme. With support from his parents and former teacher, he delivered an introductory workshop during a school assembly, reaching over 150 children, many of whom were experiencing classical music for the first time.
and shared videos of a live orchestra to help the students connect. The children responded with curiosity and enthusiasm. He also ran smaller workshops during the October half term and hopes to expand the programme to other schools across Indonesia, inspiring the next generation of musicians. Flautist Rose (Year 9) has been awarded a Powell Conservatory Model flute on loan from the Cherubim Music Trust, a national charity supporting advanced music students with professionalcalibre instruments. Rose and her teacher, Mark Taylor, attended a Cherubim Music Trust event at the Savile Club.
Year 10 percussionist Oliver joined Hertfordshire County Youth Orchestra in their performance at Sinfonia Smith Square. In a concert featuring an adventurous programme of Britten’s Over the summer, she also Tristan prepared a handbook Sinfonia da Requiem and composed an original harp solo, with illustrations of the violin Holst’s The Planets. Oliver Year 8 harpist Stephanie won Second Prize in her age group (Strings Category) at the 8th New Talent Festival Competition 2025 in London.
Pijus
Matilda
Nina
STUDENT NEWS // 5 played Principal Timpani in the Britten and second timpani in the Holst, giving really confident, technically solid and dramatic contributions (especially during the menacing opening of the Britten). Year 12 percussionist Hannah attended the prestigious Juilliard Percussion Seminar in New York. Hannah had the privilege of working alongside 19 young percussionists from around the world and participating in masterclasses and workshops led by renowned musicians. Year 8 student Elly triumphed at the Winners’ Gala of the Mill Hill Festival of Music, Speech and Drama on 14 September. Elly impressed the audience with her piano and violin performances, earning the prestigious Best Performance award. Her piano repertoire included Rameau’s Les Cyclopes.
Yakub
Samsara (Year 11) has been selected as a member of the ABRSM Youth Advisory Board for 2025/26.
Westminster Abbey during Choral Evensong during one week in October.
As part of the Senior Team (ages 14–17), Samsara will meet online each month to discuss a wide range of topics connected to ABRSM’s work as both a music charity and an exam board.
Arthur’s piece, inspired by verses from Psalm 62 (‘My soul, wait thou only upon God’), was developed in collaboration with Andrew Nethsingha, Master of the Choristers at Westminster Abbey.
Year 8 classical percussionist Ivan has been selected to perform in the Royal Variety Show at the Royal Albert Hall as part of the Guildhall Young Artists programme.
Year 12 singer Olivia attended a masterclass with mezzosoprano Tanja Baumgartner at the Talent Music Summer Opera Festival in Brescia, Italy.
Ivan will join a select ensemble of percussionists from Guildhall, performing on snare drums and marching in full military uniform. This prestigious event is traditionally attended by members of the Royal Family.
Year 12 student Samuel has been named the winner of the Song Academy’s 2025 The Young Songwriter competition in the 16-18 age category for his original track Only When It’s Easy.
Year 11 organist and composer Arthur has had one of his works performed by the world-renowned Choir of
Yoko
This outstanding achievement follow’s Samuel‘s success last year, when he placed second in the 2024 competition with his track Fell For You.
Tristan
6 // STUDENT NEWS The Young Songwriter Orchestra on the French horn competition is the UK’s leading – his second study – Jarvis will platform for emerging young return next year to the U13 artists, celebrating creativity, Orchestra on his first study instrument, the violin. originality and lyrical talent. Year 8 harpist Stephanie recently completed eleven performances in Sir David McVicar’s celebrated production of Mozart’s The Magic Flute at the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden. Running from 10th October to 3rd November 2025, the production featured twelve children’s acting roles, with Stephanie taking part alongside a distinguished cast of international performers.
Year 11 violinist Nina and Year 12 violinist Yakub achieved outstanding success at the UK International Music Competition. Nina won the Absolute First Prize in the Young Artist (14– 17) category, impressing the judges with her performance of the first movement of Bruch’s Violin Concerto. Yakub also took the Absolute First Prize in the same category, adding further accolades with First prize at the New Talent Festival and Second prize at the London International Music Competition. Jarvis (Year 8), has once again been offered a place in the National Children’s Orchestra (NCO) for 2026. Having performed this year in the U12
Hannah
For Stephanie, this was a significant opportunity to experience the collaborative world of professional opera – observing singers, musicians, directors and backstage teams working together to bring Mozart’s magical story to life. She particularly treasured being part of the performance on 30th October, which marked the 400th Royal Opera
Arthur
performance staged Royal Opera House.
at
the
Year 10 pianist Ryosuke achieved Second Prize in Category A at the Young Livorno Piano Competition 2025 – Premio Enrico Galletta in Italy. The competition, held as part of the wider Livorno Piano Competition, attracts talented young pianists from across Europe and beyond, offering a valuable platform for emerging performers. Ryosuke’s thoughtful and accomplished playing earned him the Category A Second Prize, placing him among the leading young performers at this year’s event. Year 8 trumpeter Glyn was recently invited to play with HD9 Community Brass in a joint concert with the world famous Black Dyke Band, hosted at the Holmfirth Civic Theatre. He attended a rehearsal hosted by some of Black Dyke’s principal players, then performed in the concert which saw both bands
Stephanie
STUDENT NEWS // 7
Skye
perform individually before a rousing massed band finale. This also gave Glyn the chance to link up with teachers past and present, in the shape of Connor Lennon – Black Dyke’s soprano cornet and Glyn‘s first ever conductor at Barnsley Junior Band – and Purcell head of Wind, Brass and Percussion Mike Cavanagh!
McIntosh Award for Outstanding Year 12 pianist, Zev recently Contribution to the Orchestra. performed Beethoven’s First Piano Concerto with the Symphony Rhys (Year 13, trumpet), Skye Hounslow (Year 12, baritone horn) and Orchestra. The concert, held Glyn (Year 8, trumpet) on 15th November at Wathen performed with Elland Silver Hall and conducted by Dorian Youth Band at the annual Youth Dimitrov, was a remarkable Brass in Concert milestone for Zev and a Championships, held at the wonderful showcase of his Glasshouse International Centre musicianship.
During October half term, Rhys (Year 13, trumpet) spent a memorable week in Surrey with the English Schools Orchestra, for his third and final year with the Orchestra. With a residential course hosted at Woldingham School followed by a concert performance at London’s Cadogan Hall, the week was intensive but extremely enjoyable. Rhys was delighted to be given the first trumpet seat for the season’s major work, Mahler Symphony 1, and was exceptionally proud when, during the concert, he was presented with this year’s John
for Music on Gateshead. Competing against a number of the UK’s leading youth brass bands, Elland performed a set entitled Awakening, telling the tale of a dystopian future in which music is banned and the arising of a group of young musicians who rebelled against this and returned live music to the world. Featuring a number of newly commissioned works and extensive full-stage choreography, the band were delighted to be awarded third prize overall. They were also presented with the Best Euphonium prize, and Skye received the Best Baritone prize.
Glyn
Rebecca-May (Year 7, violin) successfully auditioned for the National Children’s Orchestra (NCO) and has been offered a place in the U12 Orchestra. This achievement follows two years of commitment and growth within NCO’s Projects Orchestras, and Rebecca-May is thrilled to continue her musical journey by joining the full orchestral programme in 2026.
Congratulations to all our students on their recent achievements.
Rhys
8 // MASTERCLASSES
MASTERCLASSES This term, our students have already benefited from a wonderful range of masterclasses led by visiting artists and educators. Below are just a couple of examples of the inspiring sessions they have enjoyed so far.
We were delighted to welcome flute virtuoso, Emily Beynon, who delivered a fabulous masterclass for our woodwind students. Emily, who has been Principal Flute of the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra in Amsterdam for over 30 years, shared her expertise first with Purcell flautists Rose, Kiah and Lia and Year 12 oboists Natalie and Emily, before moving on to coach our wonderful Bassoon Quartet and Wind Quintet.
It was a pleasure to welcome bassoonist Sarah Burnett to deliver a masterclass. Sarah, Principal Bassoon of the Britten Sinfonia and Professor at the Royal College of Music, gave a wonderful class which featured superb playing by Ostap, Lilly, Elsa, Prince, Rowena and Elsa.
EXTERNAL CONCERTS // 9
PAUL BAMBROUGH ORGAN RECITAL On Wednesday 10 September, the school was abuzz with the prospect of our Principal, Paul Bambrough, performing in the CP Hall. The whole school attended this very special evening with introductions from two of our guests Dr Bernard Trafford, Chair of Governors, and HSH Dr Donatus, Prince of Hohenzollern, Purcell School Ambassador. The recital marked the 275th anniversary of the death of JS Bach, exploring a representative selection of his organ works and showed us the extraordinary variety and ingenuity of JS Bach, the greatest of all composers for the organ. A wonderful evening was had by all (even Mr Bambrough, we believe!).
SARRATT FESTIVAL OF MUSIC On 26 September, four students — Kate Y, Kate P, Shlomi and Anna — took to the stage at Sarratt Village Hall to perform at the annual Sarratt Festival of Music. The programme opened with a captivating guitar solo by Kate Y, who was then joined by Kate P for Gangi’s Suite Italiana for guitar duo. Anna followed with a deeply engaging performance of a Scarlatti sonata and a Chopin piano sonata. After the interval, Shlomi performed Bach’s unaccompanied Sonata in G minor, followed by Debussy’s exquisite Violin Sonata with Debbie Shah, Purcell’s staff accompanist. To finish the programme, he surprised the audience with a truly virtuosic violin piece — Bazzini’s Dance of the Goblins.
10 // EXTERNAL CONCERTS
CHAMBER SOLOISTS AT WIGMORE HALL The Purcell School Chamber Soloists made a return to Wigmore Hall on 24th September, presenting an all-Hungarian programme that featured works by Haydn, Liszt, Constantinescu, Bartók and György Kurtág. The concert opened with an intensely emotional performance of the slow movement from Haydn’s String Quartet Op. 54, followed by a spirited rendition of the Minuet and Trio, performed by Tristan, Madeleine, Harry and Ken. The quartet – with Madeleine now on the first violin – then performed Bartók’s String Quartet No. 3 with a commanding maturity and interpretive skill, capturing the energy and complexity of the piece. Luca then took to the stage for two solo piano works. His virtuosic performance of Liszt’s renowned Hungarian Rhapsody No. 2 was followed by Constantinescu’s Joc Dobrogean, a wildly engaging piece infused with Romanian folk music with Byzantine chant. You can watch the concert here Shlomi continued with a poised and captivating performance of selections from Kurtág’s Signs, Games and Messages for solo violin. The concert concluded with Bartók’s Rhapsody No. 2 for violin and piano, delivered with exceptional flair and dynamism by Shlomi and Stephanie. Their performance was both technically assured and emotionally resonant, leaving the audience in awe throughout. For many of the students, this concert marked their debut at the prestigious Wigmore Hall. You can watch the concert here
GODALMING RISING STARS CONCERT On 13 September, Ostap, Trevor and Julia took to the stage at the Godalming Rising Stars Concert, a concert series typically featuring conservatoire students. Our students were specially invited to participate, making their involvement all the more significant. All three performers rose to the occasion with finesse, poise, and confidence. Their performance was met with an enthusiastic reception from the audience, culminating in a well-deserved standing ovation at the end of the concert.
EXTERNAL CONCERTS // 11
HATFIELD HOUSE MUSIC FESTIVAL SCHOOLS CONCERT Our fantastic jazz quintet – Otto, Seth, Ethan, Flo and Rowena – masterfully accompanied the Howe Dell Primary School choir as part of the Hatfield House Music Festival. Under the expert direction of distinguished jazz pianist Pete Letanka, our students joined the Howe Dell pupils in performing music by Haydn for an audience of 150 children from local primary schools. The concert concluded with a joyful finale, as the entire audience joined in with clapping and body movements, creating a wonderfully inclusive and uplifting atmosphere.
HATFIELD HOUSE MUSIC FESTIVAL - FAMILY CONCERT
CHORAL EVENSONG AT ST ALBANS CATHEDRAL
On 11 October a selected group of talented Purcell students had the honour of performing to an appreciative audience that included many young children at Hatfield House Music Festival Family Concert. The programme was very diverse – from Mozart to Ravel – delivered in a variety of formats from piano solo, harp solo, to a small chamber ensemble. The standout moment of the concert was Tombeau de Ravel, composed by Purcell’s Composer-in-Association, Robert Saxton.
On 4 November, the Purcell Chamber Choir travelled to St Albans Cathedral to sing at evensong. Under the direction of Tom Winpenny, and accompanied by organists Phoebe Tak Man Chow and our student Arthur, the choir delivered a beautiful and moving service. Congratulations to all our Chamber Choir members for their wonderful performance.
12 // EXTERNAL CONCERTS
UNIVERSITY OF BIRMINGHAM BARBER LUNCHTIME CONCERT A group of students enjoyed a wonderful opportunity to perform an all-French programme at the University of Birmingham’s Barber Lunchtime Concert on Friday 7 November. Shlomi opened the concert with Debussy’s Violin Sonata, performing alongside Ms Shah. This was followed by Stephanie’s rendition of Ondine from Ravel’s Gaspard de la nuit. The programme concluded with Shlomi, Ken and Tristan giving an engaging performance of Ravel’s Piano Trio. Held in the Elgar Concert Hall, the event attracted a large and appreciative audience, and the students delivered performances marked by poise, musicality and depth.
BENSLOW AFTERNOON CONCERT On 10 November, a group of Purcell students performed a diverse programme of chamber music at the Benslow Music Trust. Pianists Asher and Teodora performed solo works ranging from Bach and Beethoven to Schumann, after which the string quartet — Julia, Sonya, Harry and Teresa — performed the first two movements of Mozart’s delightful String Quartet No. 19 in C major, K.575. There was an especially warm response from the audience to Alina’s vocal performances, including Alyabyev’s The Nightingale, as well as to Mason’s performance of Brandt’s Concertpiece No. 2 for trumpet and piano, remarking how wonderful it was to hear rarer instruments — voice and trumpet — featured in the series. The concert came to a thrilling close with Chaeyu’s performance of Sarasate’s Carmen Fantasy, which left the audience in high spirits
ALUMNI // 13
ISOBEL DAWS APPOINTED PRINCIPAL TROMBONE Congratulations to alumna Isobel Daws who has been appointed Principal Trombone with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra. One of the most sought after young professional trombonists, she will make the move to her new role after completing her commitments to the Luxembourg Philharmonic Orchestra where she was appointed in 2023.
RISING STAR KASPARAS MIKUŽIS, Purcellian Kasparas Mikužis, named Rising Star 2025 by Classic FM, returned to The Radlett Centre on 6th November 2025 to perform sonatas by Mozart and Rachmaninoff and pieces by Ravel and Hamelin.
PURCELL ALUMNI RECEIVE LSO CONSERVATOIRE SCHOLARSHIPS We are delighted to share the news that two of our alumni, pianist Kasparas Mikužis and violinist Olwen Miles, now studying at the Royal Academy of Music, have been awarded the 2025/26 LSO Conservatoire Scholarship. This prestigious programme, run by the London Symphony Orchestra, supports outstanding postgraduate musicians from top conservatoires around the world. Scholars receive up to £15,000 towards their studies, as well as mentorship from LSO musicians and valuable performance opportunities. Kasparas reflected on his award: “I feel extremely grateful to have been selected as one of the LSO Conservatoire Scholars. This support will allow me to dedicate myself fully to music-making. To be in a position where my only limits are time and self-motivation is truly inspiring, and I am very excited about the opportunities ahead.”
14 // ALUMNI
ALUMNA APPOINTED HALLÉ ORCHESTRA CELLO SECTION LEADER We are delighted to share that alumna Rachel Helleur-Simcock has been appointed Section Leader, Cello with the Hallé Orchestra in Manchester for the 2025/26 season. Rachel brings with her a wealth of international experience, having spent 16 years with the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra and The 12 Cellists of the Berlin Philharmonic. She has also served as principal cellist of the Deutsche Oper Berlin and guest-led the cello sections of leading orchestras including the Bavarian Radio Symphony, the Philharmonia and the London Philharmonic. Prior to officially joining the Hallé as Section Leader, Cello, Rachel stepped in as soloist for the Elgar Cello Concerto on Thursday 25 September, replacing Truls Mørk who had to withdraw due to unforeseen circumstances. The concert was conducted by the Hallé’s Principal Conductor and Artistic Advisor, Kahchun Wong. Speaking about her appointment, she said: “It’s such an honour to be appointed the new section leader, cello, of this wonderful orchestra, and an extra thrill to be able to perform this seminal concerto.”
BIRCE KAYHAN PERFORMS WITH WELWYN GARDEN CITY ORCHESTRA Recent alumna Birce Kayhan appeared as soloist with the Welwyn Garden City Orchestra on Sunday 19th October at 5.30pm. Birce performed Weber’s Clarinet Concerto No. 1, a virtuosic and much-loved work that beautifully showcases the expressive range of the instrument.
ALUMNI // 15
ALEXANDRA RIDOUT: FROM PURCELL TO NEW YORK – AND BACK AGAIN Purcell alumna Alexandra Ridout continues to make remarkable strides on the international jazz scene. Now based in New York, where she has lived for the past four years, Alexandra has firmly established herself as one of the most exciting young trumpeters of her generation. After completing her Master’s degree at the Manhattan School of Music, she has become a fixture of New York’s vibrant jazz community – performing almost nightly, collaborating with leading artists, and touring extensively across the US and Europe. Recent highlights include a West Coast tour with Grammywinning vocalist Samara Joy, numerous festival appearances and features in major jazz publications across the UK, USA, Germany and Austria. Her growing list of accolades is equally impressive: BBC Young Musician Jazz Award (2016), British Jazz Awards ‘Rising Star’ (2018), Keep an Eye International Jazz Award ‘Best Soloist’ (2023) and recognition at the Carmine Caruso International Jazz Trumpet Competition (2023). She has also been selected for the prestigious Next Jazz Legacy programme through New Music USA (2025). Alexandra’s artistry has been widely praised by peers and critics alike. World renowned bassist Matt Penman describes her as ‘an original voice from the first note,’ while acclaimed trumpeter Dave Douglas calls her ‘a rare musician with broad imagination who lives deeply inside her instrument.’ Fellow alumnus Kit Downes adds, ‘Alex Ridout is the real deal – her musicianship keeps growing and growing.’ This November, Alexandra returned to the UK for a headline tour with her New York Quartet, coinciding with her appearance at the Guildhall Jazz Festival/EFG London Jazz Festival. The quartet – featuring Yvonne Rogers (piano), Simón Willson (double bass) and David Sirkis (drums) – brings together some of the most exciting talent from the New York jazz scene, each with credentials including collaborations with artists such as Bill Frisell, Linda May Han Oh, Ethan Iverson and Joel Ross. Alongside the tour, Alexandra led workshops at the Royal Academy of Music and the Guildhall School of Music & Drama, inspiring the next generation of jazz musicians. On returning to New York, Alexandra and her quartet will head into the studio to record her much-anticipated debut album – an exciting milestone in a career that shows no signs of slowing down.
16 // ALUMNI
FROM CLASSROOM IDEA TO STUDIO RELEASE – NATTY PURBRICK’S JAZZ COLLABORATION We’re delighted to share the latest musical release, entitled BIRD SONG, from recent alumnus Natty Purbrick, whose new jazz fusion video brings together an inspiring mix of current and former Purcell students. “It’s here! The big jazz fusion collaboration is now fully released,” says Natty. “It’s been a long time coming, so I hope you enjoy it and share it with everyone imaginable – in school and out!” The track has a special connection to Purcell. Natty wrote the tune on his very first day at the School, during a creative ‘getting-to-know-each-other’ task set by Paul Hoskins, Director of Music. Two years later, that spark of inspiration evolved into a full studio recording – a testament to the collaborative spirit that thrives among Purcell musicians. The video features a line-up of talented alumni and current Purcellians – Sam, Clem, Albi, Ramona, Albert, Marcus, Otto, Lucas, Alex and Keir – who together deliver an energetic and beautifully layered performance that perfectly captures the essence of jazz fusion. You can watch Natty’s video on YouTube here.
MOVING ALUMNA MOMENT AT INTERNATIONAL PIANO COMPETITION Purcell School alumna Yumeka Nakagawa captured international attention at the recent 19th International Fryderyk Chopin Piano Competition in Warsaw with her deeply moving interpretation of Chopin’s Prelude No. 15 in D-flat major, Op. 28 – the celebrated ‘Raindrop’ prelude. During her performance, Yumeka became visibly
emotional, tears falling as she played, in a moment that resonated powerfully with audiences worldwide. Although she was not among the top prize-winners – with first place awarded to Eric Lu (USA), second to Kevin Chen (Canada) and third to Zitong Wang (China) – her heartfelt playing left a lasting impression.
ALUMNI // 17
THOMAS KELLY TO PERFORM RACHMANINOV WITH THE OXFORD SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Purcell alumnus Thomas Kelly returned to the concert platform in Oxford Town Hall on 23rd November, performing Rachmaninov’s Piano Concerto No. 4 with the Oxford Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Robert Max. Thomas, who has been delighting audiences with performances of Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 1 and Rachmaninov’s Piano Concerto No. 2 with the orchestra in recent years, now turns to the composer’s final piano concerto – a richly complex and exhilarating work that combines Rachmaninov’s signature lyricism with daring modernist colours. The programme also included Stravinsky’s witty ballet suite Jeu de Cartes and Tchaikovsky’s deeply emotional Symphony No. 6 (‘Pathétique’).
ALUMNI JULIAN BLISS IN RECITAL Julian Bliss performed with pianist Charles Owen for the Oxted & Limpsfield Music Society (OLMS) on Saturday, November 22 at Hazelwood School, featuring a programme with works by Poulenc, Debussy, Fauré, Clara Schumann, and Brahms, continuing the society's tradition of bringing world-class classical music to the area.
18 // SCHOOL NEWS
Support the Future of Music 24 HOURS. ONE PURPOSE. A FUTURE OF MUSIC.
We were delighted to hold The Purcell School’s inaugural Giving Day — a 24hour celebration of community, music and giving. Taking place on 11–12 December 2025, this special event invited our entire school community — students, staff, parents, alumni and supporters — to come together in support of The Purcell School Bursary Fund.
At the heart of the Giving Day was a 24hour concert with performances by students from all year groups. Musicians from all departments, from Strings to Jazz, performed classical, commercial, chamber music and everything in between, continuously for 24 hours. The concert was livestreamed, allowing supporters near and far to join us throughout the day and night. The Giving Day began on a truly memorable note. At the opening of the livestream, Principal Paul Bambrough announced that we had received a letter from HM King Charles III, our Royal Patron. In his message, His Majesty wrote that he was “truly touched to be reminded of the dedicated work that you do to celebrate and encourage the musical abilities of young people,” and added, “I send my warmest good wishes to all those who are present for a most memorable event.” Sharing this message filled the School with excitement and pride, setting an inspiring tone for the 24 hours that followed.
SCHOOL NEWS // 19
Our mission was simple but transformational: to raise as much as possible to support students’ access to a world-class musical education. The funds raised will help us provide essential training for our remarkable young musicians and offer vital support to families in financial need. The overall aim was not only to raise crucial funds, but also to strengthen our culture of philanthropy and to highlight the lasting impact of the School’s Bursary Fund. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who donated, shared our message, tuned in to the concert, or supported the Giving Day in any way. Thanks to your generosity, the total raised currently stands at a staggering £47,176.25 (with gift-aid), and gifts are still making a meaningful difference. The full 24-hour concert will be available soon to watch by clicking here:
We extend our heartfelt thanks to our whole community for helping to make our first Giving Day such a memorable and uplifting success.
20 // SCHOOL NEWS
COMPOSING THE NEXT CHAPTER... A Season of Farewells in the Purcell Composition Department Since joining The Purcell School in 1988, Alison Cox has been a pioneering force in music education, establishing the firstever Composition Department in a specialist music school and serving as an exceptional Head of Composition. Alison will be retiring at the end of this academic year, marking the close of an extraordinary chapter in the School’s history. To celebrate her remarkable contribution and lasting legacy, we’re delighted to announce a series of special events taking place over the coming year.
Calling all Composition Alumni... This is your moment to reconnect, reminisce, and join us in honouring Alison’s incredible 38 years at The Purcell School. Here are some dates for your diaries… The Purcell School Chamber Soloists: Wigmore Hall - 12 March 2026, 1pm Purcell School Chamber Soloists celebrate the Purcell School’s composers, in an enjoyable programme of short pieces written by composers associated with the school over many years. All the music is by current or former students and composition teachers. This hugely varied programme encompasses the awardwinning, the critically-acclaimed, the internationally-famous and the folkinspired. Programme to include works by Oliver Knussen, Joseph Phibbs, Lucie Treacher, Gareth Moorcraft, Kristina Arakelyan, Yiruma, Edward Longstaff and Alison Cox.
SCHOOL NEWS // 21 Tickets can be bought here or you can contact the box office directly on 020 7935 2141 to use your 50% Alumni / Friends code, which will be sent out nearer the time. If any alumni from the composition department are planning on purchasing a ticket, Alison has asked that you contact her on a.cox@purcell-school.org to let her know, as she would be delighted to hear from you! The Purcell School - 29 April, 2026 As part of our year-long celebrations, we are delighted to announce a special concert dedicated to Alison’s remarkable legacy. This unique event will feature new works by Purcell School student composers — from Middle School through to Sixth Form — each inspired by the musical letters found in Alison’s name: A, S (E in European notation), and C.
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Guided by our Composition Department, the students have explored creative ways to transform these notes into original, three-minute pieces, each growing from this shared musical ‘seed’. The performances will be brought to life by Purcell School staff, performing in small chamber groups drawn from an ensemble of oboe, horn, violin, cello, and piano. We are thrilled to invite our alumni to join us in the audience for what promises to be an inspiring evening of creativity and celebration, honouring Alison’s extraordinary influence on generations of young composers. ‘‘Sumer is i-cumen in’ The Purcell School - Wednesday July 9th 2026. CP Hall Alumni are invited to participate in creating variations of the 800 year old song, ‘Sumer is i-cumin in’. Current students will participate as performers in one of the following groups: The Purcell School’s Chamber Choir, The Philomel Orchestra, solo pianists, instrumentalists and singers, chamber groups, jazz and commercial groups and members of the school’s IMPULSE Outreach group! Please get in touch with Alison (a.cox@purcell-school.org) if you are interested in taking part and would like further details.
22 // SCHOOL NEWS
AISTĖ DVARIONAITĖ SERVES ON INTERNATIONAL COMPETITION JURY We are delighted to share the recent achievement of our violin teacher, Aistė Dvarionaitė, who was invited to serve as a jury member at the International Leoš Janáček Violin Competition. This prestigious role reflects her outstanding expertise and international reputation as a musician. Aistė Dvarionaitė second from left
You can read more about involvement on Aistė’s website here
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NEW BOOK ON STEVE REICH TO BE EDITED BY PURCELL’S RYAN HEPBURN AND FEATURE PURCELL PERCUSSIONIST Ryan Hepburn, Purcell’s classical percussion teacher, has been offered a contract by Cambridge University Press to edit a major new book on American composer Steve Reich, widely regarded as the most important living composer. The collection will celebrate Reich’s legacy and influence, featuring essays and reflections on his music, with Ryan contributing chapters on Reich’s Jewish identity and socially engaged works. The book will include contributions from leading performers, composers and scholars, including Russell Hartenberger, Brad Lubman, Micaela Haslam, Nico Muhly and Timo Andres. Furthermore, one of The Purcell School’s student percussionists will contribute a short, reflective essay to the book. Having worked on an essay competition piece with Ryan for the RPS Competition Award, Hannah (Year 12) will have her beautifully crafted piece about her experience of rehearsing and performing Reich’s Mallet Quartet at Purcell featured in the book, alongside others by authors including composers David Lang, Michael Gordon and video artist Beryl Korot. The book is scheduled for publication in 2028, with further details to be announced by Cambridge University Press.
SCHOOL NEWS // 23
THE PURCELL SCHOOL CELEBRATES SUCCESS IN EVERY CATEGORY AT BBC YOUNG COMPOSER COMPETITION 2025 We are delighted to celebrate an unprecedented achievement as Purcell School students are winners in all age categories at the prestigious BBC Young Composer Competition. In a triumphant display of creativity, originality and musicianship, Gerard (Year 13) has been named winner of the Senior category, Nemunis (Year 12) winner of the Upper Junior category, and Luca (Year 10) winner of the Lower Junior category. In addition, Tim (Year 13) has been highly commended, further highlighting the depth and brilliance of compositional talent at the School. This year’s competition was judged by a distinguished panel of adjudicators - Segun Akinola, Belle Chen, Lloyd Coleman, Tansy Davies, Hannah Donat, Shiva Feshareki, Gavin Higgins and George Moore - whose expertise spans an extraordinary range of contemporary and classical practice. Each category winner will now embark on a bespoke development programme, working closely with a mentor composer on a project with the BBC Concert Orchestra, culminating in an exciting performance or broadcast opportunity. This year’s extraordinary success carries special significance for The Purcell School. Head of Composition Alison Cox, who retires at the end of this academic year after 38 years of exceptional service, helped Peter Kingston of The Guardian establish the original BBC Proms/Guardian Young Composer of the Year Competition in 1998. She also served as Musical Director of Endymion, the ensemble that performed the winning works for several years. Her vision and lifelong commitment to nurturing young composers have shaped generations of musicians, and the School is immensely proud to see her legacy reflected so strongly in this year’s results. Alison reflected not only on the students’ achievement but on the competition more broadly: “I am delighted by the success of our students, but would also like to warmly acknowledge our amazing composition teachers at The Purcell School, who support and encourage all our young emerging composers; not just the winners.” The Purcell School community joins together in celebrating this historic moment, underscoring the School’s longstanding commitment to nurturing the UK’s most promising young musical voices.
24 // SCHOOL NEWS
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY... (external concerts) 10
JANUARY
6-7PM
4
FEBRUARY
SATURDAYS AT SIX CONCERT PURCELL PIANISTS ST MICHAELS CHURCH, HIGHGATE, LONDON
LEEDS CONSERVATOIRE LUNCHTIME RECITAL
1.30-2.30PM
9
FEBRUARY
7.30PM
12
MARCH
1.00PM
20
CADOGAN HALL JULIA MAJEWSKA PLAYS KORNGOLD WITH THE PURCELL SCHOOL SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA CADOGAN HALL, 5 SLOANE TERRACE, LONDON SW1X 9DQ
WIGMORE HALL CHAMBER MUSIC BENSLOW MUSIC, HITCHIN WIGMORE HALL, 36 WIGMORE STREET, LONDON
SOUTH HILL PARK
MARCH
CHAMBER MUSIC
7.30PM
SOUTH HILL PARK, BRACKNELL
26
APRIL
STANBOROUGH PARK CHURCH CONCERT
3.00PM
11
MAY
AFTERNOON CONCERT AT BENSLOW MUSIC PURCELL STUDENTS PERFORM AT BENSLOW MUSIC TRUST
3.00PM
12
MAY
1.00PM
LUNCHTIME CONCERT AT ST JAMES’ CHURCH PIANO CONCERT SUSSEX GARDENS, HYDE PARK, LONDON W2 3UD
SCHOOL NEWS // 25
19
MAY
3.30PM
9
JUNE
1.00PM
16
JUNE
1.15PM
23
JUNE
7.30PM
26
JUNE
1.00PM
29
JUNE
12.00PM
1
JULY
7.30PM
5
JULY
7.30PM
AFTERNOON CONCERT AT CASTLE VILLAGE CASTLE VILLAGE, THE MANSION, BRITWELL DR, BERKHAMSTED HP4 2GS
LUNCHTIME CONCERT AT ST JAMES’ CHURCH PIANO CONCERT SUSSEX GARDENS, HYDE PARK, LONDON W2 3UD
ST BRIDE’S CHURCH LUNCHTIME CONCERT ST BRIDE’S CHURCH, FLEET STREET, LONDON, EC4Y 8AU
JAZZ DEPARTMENT CONCERT AT PIZZA EXPRESS, CHELSEA WITH SPECIAL GUEST CLAIRE MARTIN THE PHEASANTRY, 152 KING’S RD, LONDON SW3 4NX BENSLOW MUSIC, HITCHIN
ST JAMES’S PICCADILLY ST JAMES’S PICCADILLY, 197 PICCADILLY, LONDON W1J 9LL
LUNCHTIME CONCERT AT PROMS AT ST JUDE’S SOLOISTS FROM THE PURCELL SCHOOL ST JUDE ON THE HILL, GARDEN SUBURB
MILTON COURT ANNA AVRAMIDOU PLAYS TCHAIKOVSKY WITH THE PURCELL SCHOOL SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA MILTON COURT, 1 MILTON STREET, LONDON
PROMS AT OF ST JUDE’S LAST NIGHT THE PROMS AT ST. JUDE’S THE PURCELL SCHOOL SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA ORCHESTRA ST JUDE ON THE HILL, GARDEN SUBURB
7
JULY
7.30PM
POP AND COMMERCIAL CONCERT AT PIZZA EXPRESS WITH SPECIAL GUEST TONY MOMRELLE
PIZZA EXPRESS, 99 HIGH HOLBORN, LONDON WC1V 6LF
If you share in our vision for what an exceptional future for music looks like and believe that the education of the next generation of world-class musicians must be a priority, please scan the QR code or for more information, please contact Chris Harbour, Director of Development on c.harbour@purcell-school.org or 01923 331131.
Aldenham Road, Bushey, Hertfordshire WD23 2TS Telephone: 01923 331100 Email: info@purcell-school.org www.purcell-school.org