An unforgettable afternoon of music

THE Henley Youth Festival Music Makers 2023 took place at Rupert House School where young musicians exhibited their pure talent and showed the audience what they were really all about. It was an afternoon to remember.

As you stepped into the hall, you could immediately feel the excitement, exhilaration and eagerness of each young musician ready to show people what he or she is made of.

The seats were all taken up with people in suspense for this show full of incredible and entertaining talent. Needless to say, the audience were rewarded.

To open the show and set the bar exceptionally high, Ariana Ihnatko, eight, showed off her piano playing skill by performing Indian Dance Hall.

Playing this complex piece, she somehow made it look easy and hit every note perfectly. Impressive.

Ariana mentioned how she is from Ukraine yet loves the environment at Rupert House.

Siblings Elena and Oscar Tarling both performed outstanding violin covers.

Oscar has been playing the instrument for six years and Elena for about four.

They both demonstrated fantastic control and concentration throughout.

They were accompanied by a pianist which added great emphasis to both pieces. Oscar commented: “I play for 45 minutes a day.” Well, that paid off for sure.

Trumpeter Joshua Drummond played an excellent cover of the Star Wars theme tune and the National Anthem.

He displayed real perseverance and declared: “I was nervous at the start but realised it was actually fine.”

As well as hitting every note, he demonstrated perfect timing and was clearly focused.

Shanaya Yasin, eight, developed a passion for playing the piano three years ago and said she finds it fun and relaxing.

She played Andante by Haydn, demonstrating great rhythm and taking her time.

Shanaya said: “I really enjoyed the song and you can play the piano whenever you like.” She showed that practice does pay off.

Another gifted pianist was Scarlett Hayes, nine, who played Presto’s Pescetti, a difficult piece, with confidence.

Scarlett came across as if she was having fun and you could tell she had been playing the piano for a long time.

Cello soloists Evan Liu and George Suckling brought their all to the stage.

They both displayed a mixture of enjoyment and concentration as they smashed their solos while being accompanied by an exceptional orchestra. It was a fitting performance to end the afternoon.