Young Shrewsbury pianist wins national accolade

A talented young pianist from Shrewsbury has beaten off stiff competition from around the country to win a Young Musician of the Year title.

Protik Moulik, who attends Prestfelde School in Shrewsbury, took the prestigious national prize ahead of 250 other young musicians at the Woodard Schools competition held in London.

The competition's chief adjudicator Brian Grindlay awarded first prize in the junior section to Protik, commending his performance for its maturity and balance.

Thirteen-year-old Protik and Ross Orchard, from Bayston Hill, represented the London Road school, and both were praised for their performances.

Prestfelde director of music Jeremy Lund said he was delighted with the results.

"Both boys performed well in the final, despite the daunting atmosphere in one of the UK's top music venues," he said. "Protik was a deserving winner, and was in full command of the situation and of the demanding piece - Chopin's Polonaise in C# minor. We are very proud of him."

Canon Brendan Clover, senior provost at Woodard Schools, said the competition had been a wonderful event.

He said: "We were treated to a varied feast of splendid and accomplished music.

"The standard was astonishing – a fitting tribute to a group of schools that stands for excellence in all things."