News

The baritone singer and fourth-year BMus student James Newby has claimed first prize in this year’s enormously prestigious Kathleen Ferrier Awards, which were established in 1956. James shared first prize with tenor Alessandro Fisher at the end of a thrilling final.

The competition final took place on 29 April at the Wigmore Hall in London. Six singers competed for three awards, which consist of cash prizes to go towards tuition fees and general support. The Kathleen Ferrier Awards aim to help exceptionally gifted singers take their skills to the highest level. The night’s other winning singer was Bianca Andrew, who won the Song Prize sponsored by Mark and Liza Loveday.

James was one of three Trinity Laban musicians appearing in the final. He was accompanied by Junior Fellow Panaretos Kyriatzidis, and was competing against outstanding soprano and Trinity Laban alumnus Nardus Williams.

The final received a 5-star review from Michael Church in the Independent, who said the standards were ‘stratospherically high’ and that the performers are ‘singers to watch out for’.

James Newby’s latest success closely follows the news that he will be performing at the Last Night of the BBC Proms this year. He will share the stage with the BBC Symphony Orchestra and Chorus at the prestigious Royal Albert Hall in South Kensington, London, on 10 September.

To read Michael Church’s review of The Ferrier Awards in the Independent please visit the Independent website.

To find out more about the Kathleen Ferrier, please visit the Ferrier Awards website.

To find out more about James Newby’s experiences please visit the Trinity Laban website.