Opportunities to perform

Throughout the year, there are several of opportunities to perform at concerts and community events, giving everyone the chance to showcase how much progress they’ve made and how great they sound on their instruments!

These performances aren’t just about the music, they’re a wonderful way to celebrate achievements, share your love of playing with others, and build confidence in a supportive setting. Whether it’s your first time on stage or you’re returning after years away, each event is designed to be enjoyable, uplifting, and a real boost to your musical journey.

Eastbourne Festival of Arts

Our first competition of the year, February 2025, held in the Emmanuel Church, Eastbourne.  It was lovely to have so many students performing. Great work Ryan in your first music festival. Leia performed in one class which she worked so hard for. Rishwy performed in three classes and had some stiff competition, but still achieved a 2nd place. Max played two very long tunes and got the audience excited with his Mission Impossible. Nabi was the youngest pianist today and performed in 5 classes, coming top in two classes. This year Jake, Helen and Stephanie came top of the woodwind ensemble class with their Suburban Blues. Helen and Stephanie went on to do a great job, before Stephanie and Jake performed solos, Jake receiving a commended mark. A great day’s work everyone! I am proud of you all and all the effort everyone put in… check out those amazing performance outfits.

Collage of images from the Eastbourne Performing Arts Festival 2025 showing participants with musical instruments and awards, including a piano and flutes, and a banner for the festival.

Oakland Care home performance

December 2024 saw us play in Beechwood Grove Care Home in Eastbourne.

These concerts bring so much joy to the residents, many of whom have a deep love of music and wonderful memories connected to it. For our players, it’s a chance to share music in a meaningful way, brighten someone’s day, and experience how powerful and uplifting music can be for both the audience and the performers.

Collage of people engaging in musical activities, including playing piano and flute, and singing. Various individuals, including children and adults, some dressed in festive clothing, involved in music-making and social interaction in an indoor setting.

Eastbourne Music Tuition Bi-Annual Concert

Our Bi-Annual Concert is always a special occasion, where pupils come together to perform for their family and friends in the welcoming setting of Christchurch, Seaside, Eastbourne. It’s a lovely opportunity to celebrate everyone’s progress and share the joy of music with a supportive audience.

A collage of pupils playing music at bi- annual concert

Maidstone Music Festival

Wishing the very best of luck to everyone taking part in this year’s Maidstone Music Festival on 29 & 30 November 2025.

Whether you’re stepping onto the stage for the first time or returning to share your talents once again, we hope the experience is inspiring, rewarding, and filled with great music. Enjoy every moment, and let your hard work and passion shine!

7 year old girl in smart pink dress with shiny shoes stands proudly beside a shiny black grand piano. She holds a certificate.
Man with dark hair holding a gold medal with "1st" written on it, wearing a suit. Background has framed pictures.

Photos of Nabi & Jake from their 2024 entry

Tunbridge Wells Arts Festival

The 2026 Tunbridge Wells Arts Festival will take place on 7th and 8th March at Kent College, Pembury. Entries open on 1st November, and the new syllabus will be available in the autumn.

All pupils who take part receive certificates and personal feedback from the adjudicators. It’s a fantastic opportunity to perform in front of a live audience, often on beautiful grand pianos – an inspiring and confidence-boosting experience for every young musician.

A special congratulations goes to Nabi, who was awarded 1st place in the Mini Musicians, Year 2 and under class.

Young girl wearing glasses and a pink dress holding a certificate and a medal, standing in front of a piano.
Young person holding a certificate in a room with a grand piano, stained glass window, clock, and portrait.

Nabi was invited back to the prestigious GEMS concert which is only for a select few with sound techs, filming and the mayor of Tunbridge Wells presenting awards. Performing, on a grand piano on stage in front of a packed auditorium such an incredible dream come true.

Empty stage with a grand piano on the left and a table with awards or trophies on the right, illuminated by blue lighting, in an auditorium at the Tunbridge Wells Arts Festival.
A table covered with numerous shiny trophies and awards, illuminated by blue lighting, with a sign reading 'Tunbridge Wells Arts Festival' on the front of the table.
A young girl in a floral dress holding a trophy and an older woman in a blue suit and a chain necklace standing on stage at a festival event.

SPRINGBOARD -Brighton & Hove Performing Arts Festival

Piano and Woodwind syllabuses available from September.

Concerts and Competitions FAQs

Q: What’s the difference between a competition and a festival?
A: Competitions often involve rankings, prizes, and formal judging. Festivals focus more on participation, feedback, and celebration of music.
Some events blend both—I'll help you choose what suits your style and goals.

Q: Who can enter?
A: Most events welcome all ages and levels. Some are graded by ability, others by age group or instrument. I’ll guide you to the right category.

Q: What do I need to perform?
A: Usually:

  • One or two prepared pieces (sometimes with time limits)

  • A copy of your music for the adjudicator

Q: Can I use my own instrument?
A: Flute & Saxophone: Yes—bring your own instrument, reeds (always have a spare reed on the go in case of emergencies), and accessories.

Piano: The venue provides a piano. There may well be a separate warm-up practise room with piano, but it is unlikely that you will get to play on the actual piano before you perform. It may well be a grand piano or be a on castors (so a bit higher), so it’s good to take every opportunity to play your tunes on different pianos before the event, so it’s less worrying.

Q: Do I need an accompanist?
A: Some pieces require accompaniment. Backing tracks may be allowed—check the event rules.

Q: Do you offer transport?

A. The venues can we some distance away, but no I do not offer any form of transport. Families usually travel to the festivals for the day, and it does cost extra for them to spectate. A parent must remain with their own child at all times, until they perform. Sometimes there is a gap between your classes, so be prepared with a picnic or maybe change of clothes to nip to the local park or soft play between performances. Whilst, I try to attend festivals and competitions I can not promise to be at everyone and for every class. With wind pupils and piano pupils the classes can be over different days, making it impractical for me to attend for the whole event.