This award celebrates exceptional musical talent among young people who are passionate about music. It honours an artist or group, who has demonstrated extraordinary creativity, skill, and impact. Whether through powerful performances, innovative compositions, or a unique artistic vision, this award recognises rising stars whose work inspires their peers and leaves a lasting impression on audiences.
Winner: Joseph O'Neill
Joseph is a 17-year-old who has faced numerous challenges with determination and commitment, always remaining humble, kind, and caring towards others. Despite the grief of losing his father suddenly and caring for his mother, who has been coping with chronic illness, Joseph has managed to achieve remarkable academic and musical accomplishments.
Throughout the last academic year, Joseph balanced homework, revision, music lessons, and preparation for violin, music theory, and piano grade exams. He left Monkwearmouth School with outstanding GCSE results, including a distinction in Music and he received the Leavers Award for Science and Music in December. He is now studying A-levels in music, geography, and physics.
His musical talent is exceptional, playing four instruments to a high standard and singing in the school choir. He has performed in various concerts, including a lunchtime concert at The Glasshouse, Christmas performances, and his first viola performance with the Young Sinfonia at Sage One. He has also achieved distinctions in Grade 5 music theory, Grade 6 violin, and merit in Grade 5 piano exams. Joseph's resilience, dedication, and achievements highlight his determination. His hard work and caring nature make him deserving of recognition, not only for his musical talents but also for his positive impact on others.
Highly commended: Sophia Knight and The Pit Caps
Sophia Knight and The Pit Caps, are a four-piece rock/pop band consisting of Year 8 students William, Oliver, and Leo and Tyler along with Year 9 singer Sophia. Despite being a new band, they have already made a significant impact on the local music scene with their professionalism and passion for music.
The band has represented Thornhill School at the 'Consilium Cracker' event, entertaining families from three regional secondary schools over three nights. Their talent has been showcased at the 1719 venue and the Fire Station, where their performance received an enthusiastic response from the audience, including the entire Year 7 cohort.
What sets Sophia Knight and The Pit Caps apart is their ability to keep classic music alive through dynamic renditions of songs from legendary British bands like The Beatles and Oasis. They maintain a close connection to their local roots, honouring Sunderland's coal mining heritage in their music and performances. They embody creativity, determination, and community spirit, making them deserving of this recognition.
This award is sponsored by the Northern Academy of Music Education (NAME)
Northern Academy of Music Education (NAME) is an independent music college in Sunderland. As Sunderland's leading music degree provider, NAME works in partnership with The University of Sunderland, delivering a BA and MA focusing on music industry skills. Find out more at Northern Academy of Music Education | Vocational Music Education | England
