On Thursday 5th June, the final of the RC Young Musician of the Year 2025 took place, showcasing some of Riddlesdown’s most talented and promising solo performers. Sixteen finalists, selected from over forty applicants after two competitive audition rounds, represented their Key Stage with professionalism, passion, and exceptional musical ability. The standard of performance was incredibly high, making it a challenging task for the judging panel – Ms Ward, Mr Dey, and guest judge Jon Regan (Co-Head of Croydon Music & Arts).

After much deliberation, the Key Stage 3 prize was awarded to Felix C (Year 7, Phoenix), with Aiden K (Year 7, Pegasus) as runner-up for his heartfelt rendition of Smile. In the Key Stage 4 category, Vanisha K and Alice C (both Year 10, Phoenix) were named runner-up and winner respectively. At Key Stage 5, Elisha Y (Year 12, College VI) gave a show-stopping vocal performance to earn runner-up, while Kieran G (Year 13, College VI) took the top prize with an outstanding piano solo.

The overall title of RC Young Musician of the Year 2025 was awarded to Harry C (Year 10, Phoenix) for his captivating and technically brilliant flute performance of Hypnosis by Ian Clarke.

Congratulations to all of the finalists for a truly memorable evening of music.