The Whitgift School in Croydon is launching an International Music Competition offering a number of prizes, including scholarships worth up to £150,000 and performance opportunities with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. Founded in 1596, the school is dedicated to academic, sporting and artistic achievement, and welcomes UK and international students. The Music Department has played host to masterclasses from such leading artists as Tasmin Little, Freddy Kempf, Sir James Galway and Sir Willard White, while its close ties with the RPO allows students the opportunity to learn from professional orchestral musicians.

Through the new competition, launched officially on November 29, gifted young string players will earn scholarships to study at the school, cash prizes and performances with the RPO. Entrants in three categories (12-13, 14-15 and 16-17 years) will initially be required to submit a YouTube video performing a piece of their choice. The winners will be selected following several live performances, taking place between June 29 and July 3, 2013, by a jury including Royal Academy of Music professor Remus Azoitei, a member of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and cellist Guy Johnston. 

‘I am hugely proud to be part of this educational initiative which gives us the chance to offer so many wonderful performing opportunities to talented young musicians from around the world,’ said the school’s director of music development Rosanna Whitfield.

Applications for the competition are open from November 29, 2012 until March 1, 2013. Visit the Whitgift School website for full details.