Talented young musicians from Saffron Walden and beyond got the chance to be involved in some spectacular music making on the world-class Saffron Hall stage.

Saffron Walden Reporter: Pupils and staff at Saffron Hall.Pupils and staff at Saffron Hall. (Image: Archant)

Over 400 children took part in the showcase music festival which was held across three days.

Organisers of the event, Jane Patterson and Ellie Morrow, were delighted. “The whole weekend was a tremendous success,” said Ms Patterson.

“It was a showcase for the talented musicians of Saffron Walden and beyond. We saw performances on a wide range of instruments from bass trombone to flute and many more.”

On Friday, the County High was host to a primary festival which saw seven local schools taking the opportunity to perform at the impressive venue.

Over the following two days, over 80 young people performed over 100 solo pieces.

Each performer received positive and instructive comments from adjudicators who had travelled up from London.

The winners of the Challenge Cup classes were:

Woodwind - Georgina Benton

Strings - Frances Patterson

Brass - Tom Curtis

Piano - Callum Thompson

Voice - Rebecca Sarginson

The five section winners were:

Woodwind - Adrian Ramirez Valdez

Brass - Florence Wilson- Toy

Strings - Frances Patterson

Piano - Callum Thompson

Voice - Rebecca Sarginson

The winners then competed to win the Mullucks Wells Festival Cup at a concert late on Sunday afternoon. The overall winner was Adrian Ramirez-Valdez who performed on the saxophone.

David Emberson, from festival sponsor Mullucks Wells presented the cup in front of a very appreciative audience. Mr Emberson has confirmed the company will sponsor the event again next year – the third consecutive year.

Ms Morrow added: “The standard was very high and we welcomed performances from all levels, from Grade 1 to post-grade 8. The adjudicators made many positive comments but also suggestions for improvements.

“We very much look forward to holding this event next year.”