Wycombe Abbey Competitive Music Festival 2025
14 October 2025 - All
Sunday 12 October marked the finals of the Wycombe Abbey Competitive Music Festival (affectionately known as WACMF). On the two preceding evenings, the Music Staff faced the difficult task of shortlisting finalists from the largest number of entries in the competition’s history. It was wonderful to hear such a variety of instruments and music. We were truly blessed to hear such diversity and talent.
The finals began early on Sunday morning in the Archer Recital Hall, but this did not deter our musicians who gave outstanding performances in the Junior Piano Class. The day was adjudicated by David Wallace, Head of Junior Music Courses at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama. With such a high standard of playing and singing, choosing Class winners was no easy task. As the competition progressed, Wallace’s summarising comments were both insightful and inspiring, offering our already talented musicians valuable food for thought.
Woodwind, Brass, Strings and Piano were all beautifully represented, and the Open Class featured a vibrant mix of Electric Guitar, Guzheng, Guitar/Voice and Marimba. The adjudicator’s frequently praised comments often praised not only the technical ability of our performers but also their engaging stage presence.
There was fantastic support from parents, staff and fellow school pupils. The final notes rang out at 5pm and the day had flown by. It was truly a collection of exciting and meaningful performances from all. It was uplifting to see so much music-making in our busy school, and it was clear how deeply music resonates with our pupils, something that was powerfully conveyed to the audience. From my perspective as a listener, they were all winners.
Mr Acosta
Head of Strings.
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