Ross-shire musical stars shine at festival

BUDDING musicians from Ross-shire have been making their mark at one of the top music festivals in the Highlands.

The Inverness Music Festival provides a showcase for musical, choral and spoken word talent.

Among some of the Ross-shire winners to date are: Sophie Hazell from North Kessock who won the grade six to seven piano; Isobel Fox who won the grade three cello and Rory Bain from Hilton of Cadboll who impressed the judges with his performance in the beginners’ fiddle category.

This year’s six-day festival started last Friday and concluded with a grand finale on Wednesday.

Chairwoman Jean Slater said: “We’ve had a good turnout this year and an excellent standard of talent.

“I know the adjudicators are very pleased with the standards which are taught in Highland schools.”

This year’s competition has introduced a number of new categories including A Celebration of Song, a debate challenge and a Battle of the Bands contest which will see five local schools competing in a variety of genres including rock, pop, jazz and Celtic for the Jean Slater Shield and a slot at the Belladrum Music Festival later this year.

Ms Slater said a Battle of the Bands aimed to help modernise the event.

“We’re trying to give the youngsters what they want,” she said.

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