Worksop College pupil Christian Aldridge scoops national Young Musician of Year title

Christian Aldridge, 12, bagged the top prize at the Woodard Schools’ Young Musician of the Year competition.

The competition is open to the 30,000 pupils across Woodard’s 39 academies, independent and state-maintained schools.Christian’s winning performance was conducted live over Zoom and his piece on the marimba (a large percussion instrument, with notes made of wood) impressed the panel of judges enough to score him top marks.His dad Phil is also a musician and accompanied Christian on the piano as he played a piece by Italian composer, Vittorio Monti called ‘Csárdás - a Hungarian folk dance.The news comes hot on the heels of Christian learning that he’s been accepted into the Royal Northern College of Music. Starting in September, he’ll manage his studies at Worksop College alongside attendance at the prestigious music school on a Saturday.

Christian, who started at Ranby House School in year 5 and moved up to Senior School, Worksop College in 2017, has always been musical, playing the drums since he was three years old.

Also a proficient piano player, it was at Ranby that he found his love of percussion.Dad Phil is overwhelmed with Christian’s achievements. He said: “We’ve been absolutely thrilled with all the encouragement he’s had from Ranby and Worksop College. He’s had so many opportunities – this is just one example. We can’t imagine that having happened anywhere else. We’re thrilled for him.”

Headmaster Dr Price was delighted by Christian’s musical achievement.

“Anyone who’s heard Christian play can attest to his immense skill and talent,” said Dr Price. “We are incredibly proud of him and look forward to seeing him go from strength to strength as his musicianship develops.”

The final was due to be held at The Bradshaw Hall, Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, with Julian Lloyd-Webber as principal adjudicator but had to be moved online because of lockdown.Christian’s winning performance can be viewed on the YouTube channel. Go to www.youtube.com/watch?v=C5KnWjKhF6U&feature=youtu.be