Young Musician of the Year 2026
Updated: Sep 14
Our annual platform for young musicians had 20 performances this year. They ranged from some of our very youngest children right through to players much further on in their musical journey, some of whom are preparing to apply to study music at university or conservatoire level.
This year we were particularly happy to welcome retired professional horn player Michael Purton to adjudicate the event. Mike had a distinguished career as Principal Horn of the Halle Orchestra and
Professor of Horn at the Royal Northern College of Music before moving into full time music education and record producing.
Encouragment for young musicians
Mike praised the high standard and enthusiasm of all the players. With his vast wealth of experience as a professional player, teacher and recording expert he gave all the players encouragement and offered constructive and positive advice to help them on the next step of their musical development.
An opportunity to perform amongst friends
The event is primarily an opportunity for children to play solo with an audience of friends and family. However we do single out one particularly outstanding performance for the Dark Peak Young Musician of the Year Trophy. It is held every year usually one or two weeks before the Summer Concert, with the shield presented at the concert.
Tom scoops the shield!
This year it was awarded to trombonist Tom Hazell for his polished and exciting performance of Guilmant's "Morceau Symphonique".
