Young Singer of the Year 

Over 100 pupils recently participated in the ‘Young Singer of the Year’ competition, a vibrant week-long showcase where pupils performed for friends and family and received guidance to help them grow as singers. 

This week began with Tuesday’s competitive rounds, a 4-hour musical celebration that saw pupils from Heatherton and Berkhamsted Prep all the way to Berkhamsted Sixth compete in simultaneous preliminary rounds. With everything from traditional opera to soulful R&B filling the classrooms of the Zaha Hadid, this was a valuable opportunity for pupils to perform in front of a crowd and receive support on how to grow as a singer.  

On Thursday, the seven standout performers from each age group were invited back to perform in the Competitive Finals. These were adjudicated expertly by Benjamin Hulett, an operatic tenor renowned for his international performances. His insights and advice ensured that every singer left feeling proud of their performance and took with them valuable tips on techniques and interpretation that will be of immense value in their development as a vocalist. 

The Young Singer competition is more than a showcase of Berkhamsted’s finest: it is a chance for pupils to Be Adventurous, perform in front of a crowd, and enjoy the performances of others in the musical community. Every participant displayed courage and passion, helping us to feel the strong musical heart that beats across Berkhamsted.  

Congratulations go to the pupils who received an award for their tenacity, technique, and confidence, embodying how we Aim High with Integrity.

Young Voice of the Year (Years 4-6) 

Winner: Beatrice W (Berkhamsted Prep) 

Adjudicator’s Award: Jemima B (Heatherton), Alys W (Heatherton), and Amelia K (Berkhamsted Prep) 

Young Vocalist of the Year (Years 7-9) 

Winner: Hannah K (Berkhamsted Girls) 

Adjudicator’s Award: Toby K (Berkhamsted Boys), Shlok M (Berkhamsted Boys), Alicia W (Berkhamsted Girls) 

Young Singer of the Year (Years 10-13) 

Winner: Ellie H (Berkhamsted Sixth) 

Adjudicator’s Award: Lauren C (Berkhamsted Girls), Oscar McG (Berkhamsted Sixth), Eva V (Berkhamsted Girls), Seren M (Berkhamsted Sixth), Sam K (Berkhamsted Boys), Matthew R (Berkhamsted Boys).