Brilliant young Brechin pianist Matthew Crabb capped a stunning Arbroath Musical Festival week by getting his hands on the event’s top prize for 2016.
Having earlier in the week registered one of the highest marks ever seen in the festival’s eight decades with a score of 98, the teenager scooped both the Tomala Piano Scholarship and the premier award of the Blue Riband at Friday night’s Webster Theatre finale.
The schedule change to run the festival Monday to Friday and stage the traditional winners’ concert on Friday evening paid off and the large audience was treated to music and song of the highest quality after a final day of competition once again festooned by honours mark performances.
Arbroath teenager Bobbi Gray received the Elizabeth Gordon Singers vocal award, the Stewart Low Trophy for vocal excellence was shared by Monikie’s Erin Nicoll and Isabella Robb from Arbroath, while the Arbroath 400 trophy for top percussionist went to Arbroath High pupil David Henderson.
The Morrison trophy for best junior performer was awarded to brass player Chris Flynn and the Miss Edna Dunbar adjudicators’ choice award went to the Carnoustie Scouts and Beavers.
Friday concert-goers were also treated to sparkling performances by the Angus Schools Orchestra, Angus Schools percussion group and the In Harmony Ladies Choir.
Photo by Angus Pictures