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Admissions Melody and mastery: Heather’s Hallfield scholarship success
Heather’s achievements as a music scholar at Hallfield School highlight her dedication, creativity, and passion for music. Inspired by live orchestras in her early years, Heather’s love for music has flourished, leading her to master the piano and drums.
Published
18 December 2024
Category
#Special Feature
School
#Prep #Whole school
From winning prestigious trophies at renowned music festivals to performing unique multi-instrument pieces, Heather’s musical success reflects her hard work and the incredible opportunities provided by the Music Scholar Programme.
With guidance from Mrs Wu and Hallfield’s focus on nurturing talent, Heather has grown into a confident and versatile musician. Her story is a shining example of how Hallfield supports young scholars in achieving musical excellence.
Personal journey in music
What inspired you to start learning your instrument(s), and how did you develop your passion for music?
When I was young, I attended musical dramas and ballet performances like Beauty and the Beast and The Nutcracker, both of which featured live orchestras. These experiences sparked my interest in music. As I got older, I had the opportunity to attend concerts by Lang Lang, the famous Chinese pianist, in London and Birmingham. It was during this time that I developed a deep appreciation for classical music and the piano.
At the age of 7, I started to enjoy modern and pop music, which led me to choose drums as my second instrument.
Can you describe how you felt when you were first awarded your Music Scholarship?
I felt really excited and proud when I first got my Music Scholarship. It felt great to know that all the practice I did paid off. I was happy because my hard work was rewarded, and it made me want to keep getting better.
What are some of the biggest challenges you faced as a Music Scholar, and how did you overcome them?
One of the biggest challenges I faced as a Music Scholar was keeping a high standard in music and performance. I always push myself to do my very best, but I still feel nervous when performing in public. To overcome this, I took every opportunity to play at school events, music festivals, and competitions. The more I performed, the less nervous I became. Experience helped me grow more confident.
Progress and achievements
How has your playing improved since joining the Music Scholar Programme?
The Music Scholar Programme has offered me more opportunity to perform in school concerts. I also get extra support from Mrs Wu in performance skills, from her instructing the piece I am playing to how to deal with dynamic and emotion during playing and curtain call at the end of performing. All these skills make me into a confident person when performing.
Have you participated in any competitions, concerts, or performances in the last two years? What was the most memorable experience?
I have participated in three major music festivals in the Birmingham area: the Birmingham Music Festival, Northfield Music Festival, and Dudley Music Festival. I was very lucky to win three trophies from each of these festivals. At the Northfield Music Festival, I won the Beryl Cup, which is the prize for under 6 years old. I also won the Norman Darlington Memorial Trophy for Grade 3 Piano. Last year, I won the Vale Pianos Cup for Grades 4 and 5 at the Birmingham Music Festival, as well as third prize in the 8 Years and Under Group competition. Additionally, I was invited to perform my winning piece at the Birmingham Music Festival Summer Concert this summer.
My most memorable experience was listening to all of the other talented young musicians and receiving feedback from professional teachers and musicians.
Support and guidance
How has the Music Scholar Programme and guidance from Mrs Wu supported your growth as a musician?
The Music Scholar Programme has given me extra opportunities to perform in Scholar Concerts, which show my progress and motivate me to continue on my musical journey. Mrs Wu has also supported me with music theory, helping me develop a better understanding of the theory and the background behind the music itself.
One of the most valuable experiences was my last concert, where I prepared a “one-man band” performance. I created a video of myself playing four different instruments: piano, guitar, bongo, and shaker. During the live performance, I played the drums on stage while my video played in the background. This was an amazing and unforgettable experience.
Mrs Wu inspired me to use more instruments to enrich my performances and provided the instruments I needed. Her encouragement and support have been essential to my growth as a musician.
Can you share a specific moment when you felt particularly supported or encouraged by the school?
I was encouraged by school to go on stage. They also cheered for me when I got my trophies. But the most special moment would be when I was awarded the Pre-Prep Music Prize by Mr Morrow last year.
How has your experience as a Music Scholar influenced your academic work or other areas of life?
Being a Music Scholar has made me feel very confident and happy in school. Music is not an easy thing—it requires a lot of time and effort. This has taught me discipline and hard work. I feel that if I can do well in music, I can also do well in my academic studies.
Future aspirations
Who are your musical role models, and how have they inspired you?
My musical role model is Lang Lang. I have been to two of his concerts, and I really enjoy his playing. I could feel the melody, emotion, and his passion for music. I was truly inspired and touched by his love for music. Watching him perform on stage made me want to be like him—playing the music I love and sharing it with others.
What advice would you give to younger students who might aspire to be Music Scholars?
If you have a passion for music or enjoy playing any instrument, keep working hard and never give up. At Hallfield School, you will not only have the chance to earn a scholarship but also receive amazing support on your musical journey. There are so many opportunities to perform, from music lessons to assemblies, Teatime Concerts, and Scholar Concerts. We even have an orchestra and a swing band, so if you love an instrument, you will always find a place to play here.
Learning music will benefit your future life. It teaches you to be patient, strong-willed, and determined. Most importantly, I hope you enjoy and find relaxation in music, because it is something truly special!
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