Belmont School Community Arts College, Durham has announced that one of their hot young talents, Hayley O’Connelley, has reached the final three of the British Trombone Society’s Young Trombonist Competition.

Final

The competition involved the competitors recording a special commission for the competition, “Hellas” by Bruce Fraser which was judged by a panel, including the composer himself.

The final three competitors will battle it out at Oundle School, Peterborough, on Sunday 5th October.

First trombone

Hayley, 13, is a former member of Craghead Colliery Band and currently plays for first section outfit, GT Group Peterlee Band conducted by Reg Vardy tuba star Stephen Malcolm. Hayley also plays for the National Children’s Brass Band of Great Britain and held the first trombone seat at Belmont School Community Arts College Summer School this year.

She is a great ambassador for the North East and at such a young age, I am convinced she has a great future ahead of herLaura Boyle

Proud

The school’s music co-ordinator and Reg Vardy baritone player Laura Boyle told 4BR: "We are all so proud of Hayley’s achievement. She has worked really hard to get this far in the competition. She is a great ambassador for the North East and at such a young age, I am convinced she has a great future ahead of her."