Young musicians shine in philharmonic contest
Young musicians demonstrated their passion for classical music on Sunday during a double-sided competition.
The Bermuda Philharmonic Orchestra hosted the 2025 Young Artist Competition and Concerto Competition at the Bermuda School of Music.
Artists took their places before a panel of judges to showcase both their mastery of the craft and musical pieces of the same style that they created.
Kate Kayaian, one of the three panellists who oversaw the competition, said: “The level of artistry and passion these young musicians have is nothing short of inspiring.
“It’s a testament to the wealth of talent here in Bermuda and the importance of nurturing the next generation of classical artists.”
Ewan Espley-Ault, a 15-year-old Warwick Academy pupil, received first prize in the composition category for his clarinet and cello duo Themes of Glory and Honour.
His piece will be performed by the Bermuda Philharmonic in the Spring Chamber Music Concert.
Second place went to Carter Bernard, a 17-year-old Saltus Grammar School pupil, for his piece Piano Sonata in B Minor.
In the concerto category, 14-year-old Prince Domingo came first for his violin performance of Hoffmeister’s Viola Concerto.
As part of his prize, the teenager will perform as a soloist with the Bermuda Philharmonic at the group’s Spring Concert on March 16 at St John’s Church in Pembroke.
Gabrielle Henderson, 16, placed second for her piano rendition of Hummel’s Concertino, while Edward Wyer, 14, came third for his version of Bach’s Concerto in A Minor.
The Bermuda Philharmonic thanked the Bermuda School of Music for serving as a venue for the event, as well as those who attended the competition and supported the competitors.
The Art of Music, the Bermuda Philharmonic’s fifth instalment of its fundraising series, will combine visual art with chamber music.
The event will take place on January 30 at Masterworks Museum in Paget between 5.30pm and 8pm.
Proceeds of the event will go towards several of the Philharmonic’s programmes, including scholarships and outreach programmes.