JCG duo scoop top awards at Young Musician competition

Monday 13 March 2023

17-year-old vocalist Sydney Haskins won the top prize at the Young Musician of the Year 2023 final this weekend, whilst fellow JCG student Chloe Connor took home the Jersey Symphony Orchestra award.

The PwC-sponsored event, now in its 31st year, was held at the Jersey Arts Centre on Saturday with five finalists competing for the title.

The evening showcased the very best of Jersey’s young musicians and illustrated the wealth of musical talent that can be found in Jersey.

To reach the final, each young musician had to win their heat in the preliminary rounds and the top award was awarded to the musician with the most expressive and technically accomplished performance of their repertoire.

This year’s five finalists were:

• Edward Clark, Winner of the Island Music String Heat (violin)

• Chloé Connor, Winner of the Island Music Woodwind Heat (flute)

• Sydney Haskins, Winner of the Jersey Vocal Trust Vocal Heat

• Isaac Tarrant, Winner of the Wendy Falla Piano Heat 

• Leo Vernaglione, Winner of the Jersey Premier Brass Brass Heat (trumpet)

Pictured: Vocalist Sydney Haskins (17) won the coveted title of PwC Jersey Young Musician of the Year 2023, which was presented to her by Abigail McDermott of PwC.

This year's winner, Sydney Haskins, stated that her love for music originated at a young age and outlined her future plans after completing her A Levels at JCG. 

She said: “I am hoping to study first at university, whilst keeping up all of my music, and then go onto a classical singing post-graduate program, followed, hopefully, by a fruitful musical career.”

“I am thankful to JCG's Head of Music, Mr Bowley, for all of these musical opportunities which have inspired me and many others," Sydney added.

Flautist Chloe Connor won the Jersey Symphony Orchestra award, which is awarded to a finalist who presents the potential to benefit from an organised program with the JSO over 12 months.

Chloe recently won the Concerto Class in the Jersey Music Eisteddfod and performed as co-principal flautist in JASTO. She also plays the alto saxophone and the piano. 

Chloe said: “I would like to thank Claire Harvey for her support, encouragement and belief in me and I wish good luck to everyone taking part in the final.”