Guest Blog by Claire Kelly
Southport Young Musicians is preparing for its biggest night of the year after attracting more than 100 entries from talented young performers across the region.
Following two packed audition days at the Waterfront Hotel, judges have selected 25 finalists who will now compete in a spectacular grand final at The Grand, Southport, on July 11.
The competition, founded by Claire Kelly, was created to provide new opportunities for young performers following the closure of the former Southport Music Festival. Since its launch, it has continued to grow and now attracts competitors aged from just four years old up to 21.
Outstanding Talent On Display
Auditions took place in the Green Room at the Waterfront Hotel, running from 10am until 6pm on both days.
Judges were treated to performances of an exceptionally high standard across a wide range of categories, including classical piano, jazz piano, composition, ensemble performance, guitar, electric guitar, singer-songwriters, brass and string instruments, and vocal categories covering classical, jazz and pop music.
Musical theatre performers, self-accompanied singers and emerging young artists were among those impressing the judging panel.
The judges themselves were carefully selected by Claire Kelly and include respected heads of music, professional performers and experienced music educators from across the North West.
Community Support Growing Every Year
The competition has received significant backing from the local community and beyond.
This year, EFT Group Limited stepped forward as headline sponsors, helping to further enhance the prestige of the event. Their support has enabled professional sound and lighting at the final through Moonlight Events, creating a truly professional experience for finalists.
Greenbank High School students have also volunteered as ushers throughout the competition, helping families and competitors during audition days.
Meanwhile, branded tote bags have been sold in aid of Elsie’s Story, the competition’s chosen charity partner for 2025.
Messages Of Encouragement
Southport Young Musicians has attracted support from an impressive range of well-known figures.
Broadcaster and performer Sarah McEntee from Heart FM, singer and television personality Aled Jones, entertainer Ray Quinn, Strictly Come Dancing judge Craig Revel Horwood, radio presenter Claire Simmo and local band The Lilacs have all offered messages of encouragement to entrants.
Southport MP Patrick Hurley also recorded a special video message encouraging young people to take part in the competition.
The competition has also gained recognition from leading music institutions.
Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts (LIPA) thanked Southport Young Musicians for its collaboration and commitment to developing young talent, while a request has been escalated through the organisation for Sir Paul McCartney, LIPA’s patron, to present the winner’s trophy should his schedule permit.
The Royal Northern College of Music also supported the event by donating branded tote bags designed to encourage young musicians to continue their studies and pursue future opportunities in music.
Preparing For The Big Night
Finalists have now been notified and will soon come together for a special boot camp event, giving them the opportunity to meet fellow competitors, rehearse for the final and celebrate their achievement.
The grand final will take place in the Princess Grace Suite at The Grand and promises to be one of the most prestigious youth music events held in Southport this year.
Guests will enjoy a black-tie evening featuring professional staging, sound and lighting, canapés and table service, alongside performances from the highest-scoring competitors across every category.
The event will be opened by the Town Crier and attended by the Mayor of Sefton, Patrick Hurley MP, representatives from EFT Group Limited and invited guests from the worlds of music, business and education.
A Night To Remember
The evening will begin with a special video showcasing highlights from this year’s competition, followed by the Southport Young Musicians theme song, written especially for the event by Claire Kelly.
There will be two major awards presented during the evening. The overall winner will receive a £250 prize and trophy, while audience members will also be invited to vote for their favourite performance, creating an Audience Choice Award.
Claire Kelly said:
“The level of talent this year has been incredible. We have seen outstanding performances from across all categories and selecting the finalists has been incredibly difficult.
“The grand final is going to be a wonderful celebration of young talent. From singer-songwriters and pianists to musical theatre performers and young vocalists, the audience can expect an unforgettable evening.”
All proceeds from the event will support Elsie’s Story, with additional fundraising taking place through a raffle on the night.
Tickets for the grand final will be released shortly.
Meet The Finalists
The 26 finalists are:
Chin Man So, Joshua Gadsby, Remy Ballinger, Paul Connor, Oliver Levy, Sung Hei, Eden Barbe, Isabella Cumia, Lachlan Robinson, Iris Last, Lillian Allen, Maisie O’Sullivan, Arabella Blu Woods, Tresawna Gielty, Sienna Summerlin, Esmay Scanlon, Mia Ward, Georgina Cawsey, Dani Capie-Witterick, Faith Cromer, Sophie Marshall, Fred Holland Carson, George Williams, Lily Grace Faulkner, Lewis Knowles and Layla McLean.
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