Second young musician gong for Brentwood School in 12 months

A cellist has won the prestigious 2023 Essex Young Musician of the Year competition — the second year in a row that the title has gone to Brentwood School.

Alex Lockyer is one of two pupils from the same school named in this year’s awards.

The 16-year-old virtuoso in the Lower Sixth captivated the audience performing three programmes.

He follows Tom Hodgkinson, a guitarist from the school who scooped the title in 2022.

“We have a student win this title for the second year running,” Brentwood School’s delighted music and performing arts director Florian Cooper said.

“Most finalists were either young professionals or conservatoire students in this competition which is open to musicians up to age 28.

“Yet for the second year in a row a current Brentwood pupil has won it, a huge achievement and testament to years of musical dedication.”

Alex gets £1,000 and was given his Essex Young Musician trophy at Ongar Music Club by the High Sheriff of Essex. He also gets offers of professional engagements.

Another Brentwood School pupil won the Under 19s’ Burt Webster award and £100 for her singing.

It was a welcome birthday present for Year 8’s mezzo soprano Rose Buggle, who turned 13 the next day.

Rose goes through to the finals of the 2023 Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod, competing against singers from around the world.