Katie during her prize-winning performance

Katie's magic flute leaves audience breathless

Flautist Katie Miner has become the new Staffordshire Young Musician of the Year.

The 17-year-old was chosen ahead of 50 other talented entrants who entered the competition run by Staffordshire Performing Arts.

These were whittled down to six musicians for the finals at St Mary's Collegiate Church in Stafford.

They each performed an extract from a concerto with the Staffordshire Symphony Orchestra.   Adjudicator Sarah Dawson, who had the difficult decision of choosing a winner, deemed Katie to be the overall winner thanks to her overall ability, performance and interaction with the audience.

Katie, who has been playing for 11 years, performed Concertino for Flute and Orchestra in D Major, by Cecile Chaminade. 

Her prize was a cheque for £100, as well as an invitation to perform at a number of concerts, including the Friends of Staffordshire's Young Musicians Annual Event.

County Councillor Terry Dix, Chairman of Staffordshire County Council, said: "I wish to extend my warmest congratulations to Katie, and indeed all of the finalists.  I am envious of their talent, but equally very proud that we can produce this sort of quality in Staffordshire.  We must appreciate how much talent there is in the youth of this county.  The standard was been fantastic."

 Adjudicator Sarah Dawson said of the winning performance:  "All of the performers were of the highest standard, but Katie really stood out.  She had an outstanding rapport with the audience and the orchestra, and her playing was technically brilliant.  Her musicality was exceptional, and added to that, she looked like she was thoroughly enjoying every minute of her performance."

Page Last Modified: 18/07/2008 13:48:21

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