Great Yarmouth Charter Academy strikes a winning chord in Norwich!

Six of our Music Scholars recently represented Charter Academy at a prestigious regional piano competition held at The Assembly House, Norwich, performing in the stunning grand ballroom and competing against a strong field of talented young pianists from across Norfolk and Waveney.

We are incredibly proud to share that two of our scholars achieved top places in the Open Classes:

• Noah Long – Winner, Open Class: Pre-Initial

• Gabriel Moreno – Winner, Open Class: Elementary

Both achievements reflect not just musical talent, but the kind of confidence and performance skill that can only be forged by stepping onto a big stage, in a formal setting, with real adjudication and high expectations.

Why regional competition matters

Performing in a venue like The Assembly House is a major step up from a rehearsal room or school hall. The grand ballroom setting demands professional habits and precision under pressure. Opportunities like this sharpen their toolkit needed to thrive:

• Managing performance anxiety and turning nerves into energy
• Projection and presence in a large, formal venue

• Musical interpretation in not just playing the notes, but communicating the music

• Learning from other high-quality performers and raising personal standards

The competition was led by an experienced adjudicator, David Stowell (Area Manager, Norfolk Music Service), who described the event as “a day of absolute joy” and praised the “wonderful music making all day.” 

That kind of professional feedback reinforces how meaningful this experience is, not only for our winners, but for every scholar who performed. Representing the academy at this level is a major achievement in itself. Noah and Gabriel’s success is a brilliant example of what is possible through our academy’s wider pursuit of performance excellence, supercharged by our Music Scholarship Programme and are proud that this event was part of the wider opportunities provided through Inspiration Trust. 

Calling all future Music Scholars (Year 5 & Year 6)

If you are currently in Year 5 or Year 6 and love music, whether you already play an instrument or you are developing your talent, we want to hear from you.

Places on the Music Scholarship Programme are popular, and early interest helps ensure students don’t miss the opportunity to apply and be considered. The programme supports young musicians to:

• develop instrumental skill and musicianship
• build confidence through regular performance opportunities
• learn ensemble skills (including orchestra development)
• access coaching and structured progression pathways

New entrants should approach the school via the website on Musical Aptitude - Great Yarmouth Charter Academy as soon as possible if they have not already, so we can guide families through the process and next steps.