Three students from BTC will be performing at the ‘Platform for Young Musicians’ concert later this month. Ophelia (Fee) Buckton, Devon Salinas and Millie Lintern are all currently enrolled on the Level 3 Music Technology and Performance Extended Diploma course at our Bridgwater Campus. They have all opted to complete the performance pathway, allowing them to develop their skills through specialist lessons for music composition, instrumental and ensemble performance across a range of contexts.

Ophelia’s performances reflect her classical training and her new-found interest in jazz. She says:

I’ve been playing the trumpet for almost nine years now, as soon as I was introduced into the world of jazz I fell in love with it!

First, she will be presenting the classical ‘Carnival of Venice’ by Jean Baptist Arban. To follow, she will play the piece that earned a scholarship at Leeds Conservatoire, ‘Blue Bossa’ by Kenny Dorham. Fee will then be joined by Millie on ukulele as they perform one of their own original numbers and a modern cover of a classic standard. Millie will be off to York come September,  however she and Fee have ambitions to continue making music together for many years to come.

Next on stage will be Devon, who specialises in flamenco guitar. He will performing a song called ‘Asturias’ by Isaac Albeniz, followed by a flamenco piece called ‘Gratitude’ by Amin Toofani. Devon has taken full advantage of everything on offer at the College, and he too, has received an offer of a place at Leeds Conservatoire. He is positive about his future:

I’ve had the opportunity to perform in various places, ranging from charity shows to classical concerts, performing alongside high level performance singers. One of my ambitions in life that I hope to achieve is to spread my passion and love for music to the world. I also hope not to take a single moment for granted because life is too short not to have fun.

After an interval, South West Music School (SWMS) will take the platform and a number of performances will be played by its students. SWMS is a part of the Department of Education’s Music and Dance scheme. Tracy Hill explains:

We provide mentoring, workshops and master classes to talented musicians aged 8 – 20 across the South West region. We work in partnership with schools and others to deliver a supportive, bespoke programme that students can access locally.

Everyone is welcome to attend the concert, and admission is free, thanks to a grant from Westonzoyland Parish Council and generous donations from members of the audience. Teas will be available at a modest charge from 3.00pm, and everyone must at the church in time to be seated by 3.30pm.

If you would like more information or have any questions, please contact Frank on 01278 699071 or e-mail onthelevels@outlook.com.