On Tuesday 4 October, St Peter’s Church, Farnborough played host to the first Music Scholars’ concert of the year. The church, which dates back to the 1200s, proved the ideal venue for this evening of solo performances by the College’s talented Music Scholars. As second year Saxophone Scholar Thomas Fletcher explains, “St. Peter's Church was a delightful venue for all Music Scholars to express their musical talents to all friends and family.”

In addition to featuring established second year scholars, the evening also announced the arrival of the College’s first year scholars performing together for the very first time. However, despite this, there were no signs of nerves as all the students reached quite astonishing levels of performance. First year Soprano, Molly Beere, commented after the concert, “It was an amazing experience. The support from all the scholars showed just how close the department is. That concert was just the start of an incredible opportunity. I can't wait!”

The enthusiastic audience was treated to an eclectic and vibrant programme performed with real commitment and musicianship. Works ranged from Mozart to Binge, via Brahms, Debussy, Schubert and Faure, amongst others.  The night also included a world premiere, as second year composition scholar Evie Oldfield performed her own work entitled ‘Prelude in E? minor’, for solo piano, inspired by her studies of Chopin.

Parents, staff and friends were moved by the level of maturity and assurance heard in the students’ readings of works on a number of different instruments. Having performed Barcarolle No 5 by Faure, second year pianist, Amber Li said, “It was a wonderful start to the year and a great privilege to be a part of such an excellent concert.  There was a true sense of community in making music together.”

About the Scholarship programme, first year horn player Oliver Trigg commented, “The Scholarship at Farnborough is thoroughly deserving of its incredibly high-placed reputation. Although I haven't been here long, I have made some great friends and already made great progress in both my performing confidence and ability. Everyone in the department is so friendly and it is a joy to be integrated so deeply into such a big happy family.”

After the concert Curriculum Manager Harry White commented, “Tonight was a wonderful formal start to the year showing us why the College is so proud of its unique scholarship programme. In partnership with the Royal Academy of Music, Farnborough attracts some of the UK’s finest young musicians from across three counties, drawn together to grow and develop further as musicians. We have all been completely inspired tonight by the quality of all the performances, in particular the maturity of our first year scholars, performing for the very first time. We are looking forward to seeing how the scholars work together and develop musically as they all embark upon this year's musical journey.”

Matt Sheppard, Director of Faculty for Music, observed, “Music gives us time to think and allows us perspective on all matters - this beautiful evening of moving and soaring music gave us just that and so much more!”