Queen’s College Year 13 student, Weng Soon Tee from Malaysia, has just gained a place at the prestigious Royal Academy of Music in London. Weng, who has been a boarder at Queen’s College since Year 10, also was offered places at the Royal Scottish Conservatoire, Trinity Laban and Royal Northern and only needs two Es to take up his place.
For the audition, Weng, who plays the piano (Grade 8 distinction four years ago), Cello (taking Grade 8 this year) as well as being a keen singer and dancer, had to play for at least 15 minutes from memory on the piano and undertake intensive aural tests and interviews. Gaining a place at the Royal Academy of Music is a real challenge as over 200 top musicians compete for only 12 places annually.
Said Weng: “I chose the Royal Academy of Music because it is extremely prestigious and has an excellent reputation for its musical teaching. I am looking to perform professionally, either as a soloist or in a chamber group or orchestra, and the four-year course will help prepare me in terms of performance technique, practical work and theory.
“I admire pianists such as Martha Argerich from Argentinia and Russian pianist Sviatoslav Richter who have real tone and lyricism in their playing as well as unbelievable technique and I hope that the Royal Academy can help me develop in these areas.”
Whilst at Queen’s College, which is well known for its excellence in music and the performing arts, Weng has played cello in the senior orchestra, piano for the swing band and sings in the choir. He was Taunton Young Musician of the Year in 2012, took the lead role in the recent dance show and is a prefect in school. Predicted A, A, B in his A Levels (Music, Art and Maths) Weng has enjoyed his time at boarding school.
“I have loved my time at Queen’s College” said Weng. “It really is wonderful, very friendly and relaxed, yet challenging at the same time. I have found the teaching here to be really inspiring and many of my friends have been inspiring too.
Said Queen’s College Headmaster, Chris Alcock: “Weng is an astounding musician and I have so enjoyed hearing him over the years as when listening you always feel he is totally in control. He has contributed immeasurably to the musical life here at Queen’s College, whether playing solos or accompanying other students and to gain a place at the Royal Academy is a tremendous achievement. I look forward to hearing his recordings and performances in the future.”