Published on 18/12/16
Two 6th Form students and a student in year 8 at the Stephen Perse Foundation – a forward-thinking, co-educational Cambridge independent school – have achieved a musical hat-trick of distinctions. The talent, hard work and commitment of Naomi Choy, Valeriya Kopanitsa and Juliette Richards has resulted in Trinity College London awarding three distinctions in their recent Performance Diplomas.
Valeriya, an accomplished pianist, and Naomi, a talented saxophonist, both undertook ATCL Performance Diplomas. A post Grade 8 level qualification, this Diploma is equivalent to the performance component of a first-year undergraduate degree course.
Talented pianist Juliette, at 13 years of age, gained her distinction in the LTCL Performance Diploma with a mark of 96 out of 100. This outstanding achievement follows Juliette's distinction in the ATCL (the first of the performance diplomas) earned at the age of 11. The LTCL is the second of three levels of performance diplomas and is equivalent in standard to the performance component of the final year in a full-time undergraduate course at a conservatoire or other higher education institution.
Matthew Rudd, Director of Music at the Foundation said: “To achieve distinctions at this level really is outstanding. We’re so proud of Valerie, Naomi and Juliette – who have all been taught and encouraged by teachers in our music department. We work closely with teaching staff across the 6th Form to ensure all our students can easily combine musical ambitions with their academic studies and the wider aspects of College life.”
Throughout the Foundation, from Pre-Prep through to 6th Form – teachers at the Stephen Perse are keen to identify the unique potential of every child. Opportunities to experience and progress in different creative activities – including music – are warmly encouraged and are integral to the curriculum. In 6th Form, all students have two time-tabled sessions per week, dedicated to exploring enrichment activities, with the freedom and flexibility to pursue activities that reflect their individual interests.
Tricia Kelleher comments on music across the Foundation: “Our Foundation is alive with music and I enjoy a rich, diverse range of performances throughout the year – from pop, jazz and classical to instrumental, choral and orchestral – there is something to suit everyone. Over half our Senior School students have individual music lessons with a great team of specialist teachers. For those with exceptional talent, we also offer music scholarships.”