The Brentwood International Music Competition is nothing short of spectacular—a true gem in the global music scene. From the moment the first note is played to the final bow of the closing performance, every element of this competition exudes professionalism, passion, and prestige.
What sets Brentwood apart is its unwavering commitment to excellence. The competition attracts a stunning array of young musicians from around the world, each bringing their own flair and cultural richness. Whether you’re witnessing a breathtaking solo performance, a masterful duet, or an electrifying ensemble, the level of artistry on display is world-class.
The organization of the event is impeccable. The judging panel features esteemed musicians and educators whose feedback is both insightful and inspiring. They don’t just evaluate—they mentor, offering invaluable guidance that many participants will carry with them for a lifetime. The event is clearly designed not just to reward excellence but to nurture it.
The venue itself is elegant and acoustically superb, enhancing the experience for both performers and audiences. The atmosphere throughout the competition is vibrant, inclusive, and brimming with a sense of opportunity and celebration.
For aspiring musicians, Brentwood is more than a competition—it’s a launchpad. Finalists and winners often go on to achieve incredible things, thanks in part to the prestige and exposure this competition affords.
In every way, the Brentwood International Music Competition stands as a shining example of how music can bring the world together in harmony, excellence, and shared inspiration. Whether you’re a participant, a music educator, or an enthusiast, this is an event that will move you, challenge you, and stay with you forever.
Brentwood School proudly announced the winners of its first-ever Brentwood International Music Competition at a landmark Grand Final on Wednesday 8th May, an evening that will surely be remembered as a defining moment in the school’s rich musical history. Held in the beautifully transformed Memorial Hall, the event was a spectacular celebration of emerging classical talent, drawing an audience of distinguished guests including the Deputy Mayor of Brentwood, internationally renowned musicians, and enthusiastic supporters from near and far.
This prestigious competition drew nearly 30 entries from gifted young musicians across the globe. From this highly competitive field, seven extraordinary finalists, aged between 13 and 16, were selected to perform 20-minute recitals, accompanied by the brilliant pianist Simon Lane. Representing a truly international cohort—from Ukraine, Hong Kong, Brazil, Australia, Turkey, Bolivia, and the UK—these young performers lit up the stage with poise, passion, and prodigious talent.
The coveted First Prize of £1,000 was awarded to Kori, a 14-year-old violinist from Ukraine, whose masterful recital left the audience breathless. His interpretations of Britten’s Waltz and Wieniawski’s Variations on an Original Theme were hailed by the judges as a “startlingly mature interpretation” and “the perfect blend of virtuosity and poetry.” Kori’s technical command and emotional depth were truly astonishing—an undeniable star in the making.
Second Prize went to Kate, also 14, from Hong Kong, whose electrifying performance featured Hubay’s Carmen Fantasy, Bach’s D minor Sarabande, and Bazzini’s Goblin’s Dance. The adjudicators were unanimous in their praise, noting that her recital “would not have been out of place in any world-renowned concert hall.”
Third Prize was awarded to Yoko, a 15-year-old cellist representing Brazil and the UK, whose deeply moving renditions of Elgar’s Cello Concerto and Beethoven’s A Major Sonata revealed a rare sensitivity and artistic maturity. Her performance resonated powerfully with all in attendance and marked her as a remarkable rising talent.
Other finalists received high commendation from the panel, including Veronica (14, flute, Australia), Gabriela (16, violin, Bolivia), Marina (16, clarinet, UK), and Alp (13, piano, Turkey). A separate Grand Prize recognizing overall excellence and artistic promise is to be announced, further affirming Brentwood’s commitment to celebrating the finest young musicians.
The evening was elevated by guest performances from Brentwood’s own musical stars. Tom Hodgkinson, a distinguished Old Brentwood and student at the Graz University of Fine Arts and Music, offered a stunning performance of Bach’s Largo and Albéniz’s Evocation. Rising mezzo-soprano Rose, a current Year 10 student and award-winning talent, moved the audience with her renditions of Schubert’s Du bist die Ruh and Bizet’s Habanera from Carmen.
The judging panel, a formidable assembly of musical excellence, included Grig Cuciuc (Artistic Director of Specialist Music, Brentwood School), Gerrard Le Feuvre (Director, Kings’ Chamber Orchestra), Vanessa Latarche (Head of Keyboard, Royal College of Music), and Rosie Whitfield (Head of Junior Guildhall). Each finalist received thoughtful, written feedback, and a unique feature of the adjudication process included input from students in Brentwood’s Specialist Music Programme.
Lord Guy Black of Brentwood, Chair of the Competition Committee, Council Chairman of the Royal College of Music, and Chairman of Brentwood School Governors, delivered a powerful closing speech. He emphasized the importance of fostering young musical talent, particularly in today’s educational climate, and praised Brentwood School for its vision and dedication to the arts.
Hosted with flair by Assistant Director of Music Chris O’Leary, the evening had all the hallmarks of a world-class musical event. While it was a competition, the overriding spirit was one of celebration, with every performer honored for their extraordinary musicianship, maturity, and passion. The standard of performance was nothing short of astonishing—many would not have been out of place on the stages of Carnegie Hall, Wigmore Hall, or the Royal Festival Hall.
Headmaster Michael Bond closed the evening with a heartfelt reflection:
“Tonight has left its mark on the history of Brentwood School. It was a special evening of exceptional talent and healthy competition, all beautifully aligned with our values of Virtue, Learning and Manners.”
Located on a 75-acre campus in the heart of Brentwood, Essex, just 23 minutes from London, Brentwood School continues to cement its reputation as a centre of educational and artistic excellence. With a warm and inclusive community of over 1,900 students, the School’s Specialist Music Programme is thriving. In 2025, a new purpose-built Boarding House and a vibrant Sixth Form Café will further enhance the school’s commitment to student life and creativity.
The Brentwood International Music Competition is poised to become a signature event in the global classical music calendar—a beacon of opportunity, inspiration, and excellence for young musicians around the world.
