Joyce shines in music competition

A RIPON Grammar School flautist has won through to the district final of a prestigious music competition.

Joyce Fung, 16, won her class at the Rotary Young Musician Competition held in Ripon, and was one of only two students selected to compete in the district final in February.

Joyce, who is studying science subjects alongside music at A-level, plans to study biochemistry at university.

The teenager, who took up the flute at six years old, says: “I do music purely out of enjoyment and passion for the subject, the teachers are also super nice and engaging.”

She was inspired by her older sister, who also played the instrument as a child, and is working towards her diploma, having achieved her grade 8.

Joyce, who has won numerous awards at Harrogate Music Festival in the past, played the 1st movement of the Sonatina by Lennox Berkeley at Ripon.

Having achieved her grade 8, she was competing against higher class musicians this time: “It was very challenging,” she said.

“I was quite surprised when I won as I thought the other musicians played amazingly, but I was very happy that my practice paid off.

“I am excited to continue into the second round, but I will have to practise even more and work harder.”

Currently a member of the RGS orchestra and wind band, she hopes to join an orchestra outside school as well, to expand her knowledge and playing skills.