One of Britain's leading competitions for young musicians returns this weekend, with Welshpool music lovers able to enjoy some of the UK’s brightest emerging talent just a short journey across the border.
The prestigious Gregynog Competition for Young Musicians takes place at Shrewsbury School on Saturday, bringing together outstanding instrumentalists aged 18 and under from across the country.
Previously held at Gregynog Hall in Tregynon, the competition moved to Shrewsbury last year while the hall was undergoing refurbishment.
Despite the change of venue, the Maidment Building at Shrewsbury School remains a convenient destination for local audiences, with a journey comparable to that of the competition’s former home.
Now in its third decade, the event has established a reputation for discovering exceptional musical talent, with previous winners including internationally acclaimed cellist Sheku Kanneh-Mason and violinist Charlie Lovell-Jones.
Organisers have reported a record number of entries this year, with around 18 young musicians selected to compete in Saturday's semi-finals following an initial judging round based on submitted recordings.
Five or six performers will then progress to the evening Grand Final, where the overall winner will receive a £3,000 prize.
The judging panel features distinguished musicians and educators from the Royal College of Music and other leading UK conservatoires.
The competition's reputation is further highlighted by the success of former participants, several of whom have recently appeared in the early rounds of BBC Four's BBC Young Musician.
Meifod-based adjudicator Ieuan Jones said the event offered audiences a rare opportunity to experience outstanding young musicians at a crucial stage in their careers.
“For anyone who enjoys live music, the event offers a fascinating chance to watch talented young performers at an important stage in their musical development,” he said.
“Whether attending the daytime semi-finals, the evening Grand Final or both, audiences can look forward to performances of an exceptionally high standard.”
Tickets are available separately for the daytime semi-finals and evening Grand Final, giving visitors the option of attending either session or enjoying a full day of live music.
Tickets are available by clicking here.
PICTURE: Mayuchi Ono, the 2025 Overall Winner of the Gregynog Young Musician Competition 2025, with adjudicator Ieuan Jones