Brent Junior Musician of the Year 2025

All finalists will receive a plaque in recognition of their participation in the event. The 2 runners-up will also receive a cash prize to support their musical development. In addition to the cash prize on offer, the winner of Brent Junior Musician of the Year 2025 will get a bespoke prize suited to their talent and the opportunity to perform as a featured soloist at the BMS Summer Festival in July 2025. 

Brent Junior Musician of the Year is open to all students aged 12 or under on 31st August 2024 (are now in Yr.8 and below) and of approximately Grade 2 standard and above. 

All entrants must fulfill at least one of the following criteria:

-        Be a current resident of Brent

-        Attend a school in Brent

-        Attend a BMS Ensemble

All vocalists, instrumentalists, genres and musical traditions are welcome.

Round 1 - Video/Audio submission

Please complete the application at https://forms.gle/57sFsycnfJNDe7GZ9

and upload a recording of yourself performing 1 piece of music that lasts no less than 1 minute and no more than 3 minutes in length by 6pm on Friday 29th November 2024.

• You can submit either an audio or a video performance.

• You will also need to upload a copy of the sheet music score. 

If your music is from a tradition which does not use notation, a written explanation of the piece should be given in lieu of a score. Please ask for more information or guidance if this applies to you before submission.

• Please clearly label all your files with your name and the title of the music.

• The piece you choose can be accompanied or unaccompanied. If using a backing track please ensure that the solo is audible throughout.

• A panel of BMS staff will select entrants to progress to Round 2 of the competition. 

Round 2 - Workshop/Masterclass 

The workshop/masterclass will be led by professional musicians and BMS staff.

• You should be prepared to play/sing two contrasting pieces totaling no more than 5 minutes of music. 

• You will be allowed to use different instruments from the same family (e.g. alto and tenor sax, electric guitar and acoustic guitar, B flat trumpet and piccolo trumpet) but not two completely different instruments.

• BMS will provide a piano accompanist for the workshop if required. You may opt to bring your own accompanist should you wish. You must bring your own accompanist if your accompaniment is not suitable for piano and you require an alternative instrument. 

• The workshop/masterclass is designed to be a supportive, educational experience which will allow young musicians to learn from their peers and refine performance skills.

• Entrants will be selected to progress to the final based on performance and engagement in the workshop/masterclass.

Round 3 - The Final! 

There will be a final performance event with an audience held at a local venue.

• You will be asked to perform two contrasting pieces of your choice. 

• You must perform the same pieces of music submitted in Round 2 for the workshop/masterclass. 

• The music must be accompanied if the piece requires it.  If you are unable to find or pay for your own accompanist, we can help you. 

• There will be rehearsal time available on the day.  It may be during the school day (afternoon). More details will follow nearer the time.

• The final will be adjudicated by at least one guest judge from outside BMS and a member of BMS staff.

• The decision of the judges is final.

• All entries must be made using the entry application form by 6pm on 29th November 2024. NO ENTRIES CAN BE ACCEPTED AFTER THIS TIME.

• Receipt of a completed entry form implies acceptance of the rules. The organisers reserve the right to legislate on any point arising which is not provided for in these rules.

• The prize money can only be used for the further musical education of the prize winners. Allowable use of the prize money includes assistance with the purchase of an instrument or accessories, attendance at residential courses or to purchase a series of extra lessons. Money will only be made payable to a recognised teacher, course organiser or instrument retailer. Money cannot be paid directly to the competitor or the competitor’s family.

• We would expect that performers on instrument or voice should be approximately MINIMUM Grade 2 or above standard or equivalent.