The orchestra is keen to encourage young performers, and holds an annual Young Musicians’ Competition. This is open to instrumentalists and singers of school age who live or study within a 30-mile radius of Reading and who have reached a standard at least equivalent to Grade 7 of the Associated Board.

The competition winner receives gift vouchers for Hickies Music Shop and a trophy. Also, if a suitable standard has been reached, the winner will be offered the opportunity to perform as a soloist with the orchestra in its 2008-2009 season.

From 2008 an additional award, the Joy Day Cup, is made to the young musician whose performance shows the most promise. This is to commemorate Joy Day, a member of RSO for many decades who passed away in 2007.

YMC 2010

The Hickies/RSO Young Musicians’ Competition 2010 took place on Sunday 14 March at Bradfield College, Bradfield, Reading.

2010 Winners

• Winner - Violetta Suvini
  Violin, aged 10 (Manorcroft Primary School)
• Second - Edward Reeve
  Piano, aged 14 (Reading Blue Coat School)

The winner of the Joy Day Cup was trombonist Thomas Gibbs aged 15 (Kennet School).

We hope to announce dates when some of these superb musicians can perform with the RSO shortly.

Thomas Gibbs with
the Joy Day Cup