On Friday, 110 of the school’s pianists took to the keys for Farleigh’s fourth Piano Festival, a celebration of one of the most popular instruments taught, but less often showcased, and now a firmly established fixture in the calendar. 

This year’s festival pushed the boundaries yet again, including more pianists, a greater proportion of more advanced pianists and more children playing duets together than ever before. No wonder it lasted from just after lunchtime till late into the evening!

The adjudicator, Mr Alex Tester, from St Edward’s in Oxford (Teddies), had kindly given up part of his half term to listen to Farleigh’s piano pupils for this long afternoon, but there was no hint of fatigue when he stood up to entertain the audience and children alike with his enthusiastic comments of praise for everyone who played, giving valuable insight into what makes a performance stand out.

Despite hours of preparation nerves can play havoc on the day but the children gave little away. Due to their unfailing professionalism in presenting their pieces, their competence at the keyboard as well as the variety of music played, it was always going to be a very tricky job to select the medal and trophy winners.

The following pianists are therefore very deserving of their awards:

Class 1 - Ottilie P (runner-up), Harry C (winner)

Class 2 - Gilby O (runner-up), Amelia F (winner)

Class 3 - Harriet G (runner-up), Sophia K (winner)

Class 4 - Henry W (runner-up), Tristan E (winner)

Class 6 (Duets) - Hugh Gand Henry W (runners-up), Margo and Minna S (winners)

Class 5 - Minna S (runner-up), William R (winner). 

Huge thanks go to Mr Tester and Mr Reeves, Mrs Rockhill and all the piano teachers for their hours of patience in preparing their pupils, and especially to the children who should be incredibly proud of what they achieved.

Teresa Henderson
Music Department Administrator