Festive decor at pop-up shop
AYOUNG musician from Southport took to the stage at the Royal Albert Hallthis week.
Joshua Quinlan, 18,conducted his own piece, Songs Of Stone, in the Music for Youth Proms concerts.
Theconcertsshowcase “high quality performances from some of the UK’s most creative, innovative and energetic young musicians”.
Joshua left St Mary’s College in Crosby in the summer and is studying for a degree in music at the University of York.
At the Royal Albert Hall he conducted members of the Liverpool Philharmonic Youth Company who performed Songs Of Stone.
This three-movement choral piece takes as its inspiration a journey between Liverpool’s two great cathedrals along a street called Hope.
This was the third performance of this composition in a high-profile venue, as Joshua had previously conducted the piece at the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra Centre in July, following its premiere at Liverpool’s Philharmonic Hall in February.
Last year, another of Joshua’s pieces – Fisherman At Sea – was also performed at the Philharmonic Hall as part of the Rushworth Young Composers initiative.
Commenting on the Royal Albert Hall event, Joshua – also a talented clarinet player – said: “Obviously to be part of this concert was a huge honour and a fantastic experience, although rather a nerve-wracking one.
“Very few people ever get to see their music performed at such a prestigious venue, so it’s an evening I will never forget.
“It was also a great opportunity to meet up with and listen to other enthusiastic young musicians from across the country, from full-scale orchestras to jazz bands and rock groups.”
St Mary’s College principal, Mike Kennedy, said: “Music is a hugely important part of life at the college, but Joshua’s musical achievements as a student here were exceptional even by our general high standards.
“I am absolutely delighted to see that his well-deserved success as a composer, clarinettist and a conductor is continuing.”
He added: “We will all be watching his future career with keen interest.” AFTER last year’s successful launch, Christmas by G L is reopening at The Royal Arcade, Lord Street.
Gillian Lambrenos – the creative brain behind the business – has been working all summer modelling original Christmas pieces.
She says her creations capture a novel and enthusiastic approach to decoration design.
Gillian makes each piece by hand and offers garlands and wreaths in pink, purple and teal for those looking for something to fit current trends.
If you want to bring joy to children or grandchildren, there are decorations featuring Santa’s elves and gingerbread men.
The extensive range covers everything from traditional reds to frosty whites, stylish coppers to royal sapphires and emeralds.
Christmas by G L is at The Royal Arcade, Lord Street, Southport, opposite the Prince of Wales Hotel, and is open on Sundays.