Young violinist crowned Perse Musician of the Year title

Talented violinist Ellie (Year 7) has been crowned Perse Musician of the Year 2026 after delivering an outstanding performance in the elite grand final of the school’s annual competition.

The competition saw pupils compete across a series of instrumental and vocal finals before the top performers progressed to the prestigious grand final.

This year’s finals featured 22 students performing challenging solo programmes across a range of instruments and styles, with adjudicators Max Kenworthy, Director of Music at The Leys School, and Rosie Whitfield, Head of Music at Junior Guildhall, praising the exceptional standard of musicianship on display.

Ellie was crowned Perse Musician of the Year 2026, winning the elite category following a standout performance which demonstrated remarkable musicality, confidence and technical skill against some of the school’s most talented young musicians.

As well as Ellie’s success in the elite category, Audrey (Year 9) won the beginner award for harp, Joe (Year 9) was named intermediate winner for trumpet, and Jane (Year 10) took the advanced title for oboe. Congratulations also go to Fred, Austin, Tina, Sophie, India and Theo, who were highly commended for their performances.

A huge well done also to the Gonville Griffins for winning the most PMOTY points for their house, and a huge thank you to all pupils involved for the whopping 332 entries which kicked off this year’s competition.