Ruth Williams, a soprano, won the prestigious competition, which is part of the Mid-Somerset Festival. Not only is Ruth a highly accomplished singer, but also plays the flute in the Bath Music Centre orchestra. She plans to study music at university.

Her winning performance, at the Banqueting Rooms in Bath’s historic Guildhall on October 8th, was part of a fantastic night of music that also featured three other WEMA students.

Gavin Phelps impressed the audience with his piano skills. Gavin has strong links with WEMA – he played percussion in the WEMA orchestra in Bath for several years, and is an organ scholar at Bath Abbey.

Saxophonist Matthew Wise (whose parents both teach for WEMA), is another former regular at the Bath Music Centre.

And still playing with the WEMA orchestra is Lucas Wong, who oboe playing impressed on the night.

All the students have benefited from playing in our symphony orchestra, senior wind band, sax ensemble and joining us on our residential course.

Estelle Greeley, Head of Education at WEMA, said: “We are thrilled that these four excellent young musicians were selected for the final. And many congratulations to Ruth for winning. It is a great demonstration of something we see on a regular basis at WEMA, that taking part in our Music Centre ensembles and learning new skills by playing with others can help you reach your goals.

Young musicians are always welcome to come along for a for a free session at one of our music centres across Bath and North East Somerset, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire, to experience the fun and friendship of singing or playing in a group.

For more information on WEMA Music Centres, visit: https://wema.org.uk/wema-music-centres