In an era when many young people's idea of music extends no further than emulating the latest heartthrob and conforming to stereotypes from the televised karaoke soap operas that are 'The X Factor' and 'Britain's Got Talent', it is refreshing to know that Loretto's illustrious James Waterhouse Piano Competition is unapologetic in its quest to search for real talent.
Now in its third year, The James Waterhouse Piano Competition continues to attract the country's most talented young pianists. This year's competitors gathered at Loretto on Saturday, 10th November, travelling from as far afield as the Isle of Arran, Manchester and everywhere in-between.
In partnership with Steinway and Sons, The James Waterhouse Piano Competition at Loretto is one of the foremost piano competitions for children in the United Kingdom; a competition where any branded clothing or Bieber-esque windswept hair style have no effect on the result.
The James Waterhouse competition searches for the very finest young pianists from the various classes-the winners a result of hours of dedication, passion, emotion, expression and outstanding guidance. Hamish Ogilvy (9 years old from Pencaitland) who attends Loretto, won the Foundation Class.
Loretto is an All Steinway School, the first of its kind in Europe and the pianos are in constant use throughout the year. In December 2010 Loretto replaced its entire piano stock with 13 brand new pianos including three Steinway model B concert grand pianos.
The partnership between Loretto and Steinway has become the first of its kind in Europe, forging a link between a leading independent school and the finest piano maker in the world. It affirms Loretto’s position as one of the premier music departments for piano tuition.
In celebration of this fabulous partnership Loretto is committed to providing opportunities for boys and girls from all over the United Kingdom to play the pianos.
It was fitting that this year's James Waterhouse Piano Competition was bigger and better than ever before. After almost 11 hours of adjudication by Gareth Green and Angela Livingston, culminating in a concert in the Loretto Chapel, the winners were announced as;