Pupil receives Benedetti masterclass

A teenage violinist from Perthshire has enjoyed a once in a lifetime experience to play with worldrenowned violinist Nicola Benedetti MBE.

Fifth-year pupil Briona Mannion, who attends St Mary’s Music School in Edinburgh, had the opportunity to take part in a music masterclass with the Scottish violinist at the school on Thursday, May 18.

The Crieff teenager was one of five students at the music school chosen to receive the masterclass, where she performed Saint-Saens’violin concerto no. 3 in B minor in front of an audience of 330.

The masterclasses at the school are in memory of Nigel Murray, the school’s former director, who left money in his will for the students to receive masterclasses from top musicians across the country.

Perth Festival of the Arts regular Nicola said:“I am delighted to have led the fifth Nigel Murray masterclass for young violinists from St Mary’s Music School.

“It is great that a large number of young violinists and their teachers attended and it was an inspiring morning to work with these talented young people.”

Dr Kenneth Taylor, Briona’s headteacher at St Mary’s, added: “We are delighted that Nicola Benedetti agreed to lead this year’s Nigel Murray masterclass.

“She is not only an exceptionally talented musician but also a great example to Scotland’s young aspiring musicians.”