The Guildhall School of Music has announced its 2026 Guildhall Young Artists' (GYA) National Brass and Percussion Competition winners.
Lucas Rebel, Yujian Huang, Connie Barakat, Nicky Palic, Lucie Hall, Emma Sandford, Ivy Zorzoliu, Jayden Siu and Anna Richmond claimed the various category awards.
A spokesperson told 4BR that the competition had, "highlighted the extraordinary talent of these emerging young musicians across the GYA network, community brass bands, music hubs, junior conservatoires and more."
The participants performed in front of an all-star panel of judges, as well as taking part in workshops throughout the day to support their development. These offered constructive feedback and valuable opportunities to play alongside peers of a similar level in a supportive environment.
Future
Speaking about the event, trombonist Carol Jarvis said: "It's a fantastic format for young musicians to access outstanding tutors and facilities, and I'm certain many of them will soon be professional colleagues. The future of brass playing is in very safe hands."
Meanwhile, Richard Benjafield, Percussion adjudicator, Head of Wind, Brass & Percussion, Guildhall School added: "It was brilliant to see so many talented and creative percussionists on the National Percussion Day. As well as the competition, the day was about learning in a supportive and enjoyable atmosphere."
High standard
In summing up the success of the event, Spencer Down, Creative Director, Guildhall Young Artists told 4BR: "At a time when the arts are often undervalued, it was fantastic to see so many brilliant young musicians performing at such a high standard.
A huge thank you to our adjudicators mentioned above, our partners Phil Parker Ltd. and Southern Percussion, and all those involved in making this a successful and enjoyable day."
Young Artists Day
Young brass and percussion players are invited to take part in the Guildhall Young Artists Brass and Percussion Day on Sunday 5th July.
The next National Brass and Percussion Competitions will take place on Sunday 18 April 2027.
At a time when the arts are often undervalued, it was fantastic to see so many brilliant young musicians performing at such a high standardSpencer Down, Creative Director, Guildhall Young Artists
Winners and Highly Commended Students:
Under 13 Upper Brass:
Winner: Lucas Rebel
Highly Commended Student: Oscar Compton
Under 13 Lower Brass:
Winner: Yujian Huang
Highly Commended Student: Arthur Barker
Under 16 Upper Brass:
Winner: Connie Barakat
Highly Commended Student: Max Bovensiepen
Under 16 Lower Brass:
Winner: Nicky Palic
Highly Commended Student: Arthur Alsop
Under 19 Upper Brass:
Winner: Lucie Hall
Under 19 Lower Brass:
Winner: Emma Sandford
Highly Commended Student: William Evans
Under 15 Percussion:
Winner: Ivy Zorzoliu
Highly Commended Student: Ivan Varga
Under 17 Percussion:
Winner: Jayden Siu
Highly Commended Student: Archie Bloore
Under 19 Percussion:
Winner: Anna Richmond
Highly Commended Student: Lily Maynard Smith
