City of Norwich School (CNS), is celebrating after young musician Joe achieved the highest Grade 8 Piano examination result in Norfolk, earning a special prize from the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM).
Joe received the news in a letter from ABRSM informing him of the award, along with a £150 prize, in recognition of his outstanding result.
As a Music Scholar at CNS, Joe performs regularly in the school orchestra and Jazz Big Band and has taken part in productions including We Will Rock You.
His musical journey began at junior school, where he first developed an interest in playing keyboard through class music lessons. Formal piano tuition followed in Year 4, and his lessons continued into secondary school as he worked towards his Grade 8 Piano.
Joe is also a member of the Norfolk Youth Jazz Orchestra, where he has developed his musicianship by performing alongside other young musicians and building friendships through music.
Alongside piano, Joe is an accomplished saxophonist, currently working towards Grade 6 Saxophone. This autumn, he will also join the Norfolk County Symphonic Wind Band.
Music is central to life at CNS, with over 60 students in the full orchestra and 13 ensembles on offer, alongside a partnership with Guildhall School of Music and Drama that gives students access to workshops and masterclasses with Guildhall students.
Jo Philpott, Headteacher at City of Norwich School, said:
“Joe is a supremely talented musician who works hard who loves being involved in CNS’s rich music opportunities. This recognition from ABRSM is thoroughly deserved. He is a valued member of our school orchestra and Jazz Big Band, and it is wonderful to see his talent recognised at a county level. We are extremely proud of him and look forward to seeing where his musical journey takes him next.”