Meet the performers: Ellie & Lewis
This month we’re spotlighting the young musicians who will be performing alongside saxophonist Jess Gillam at the Hallé St Peter’s on the 6th of September. Last week we introduced you to The McGuire family, this week we’d like to introduce you to another set of musical siblings! The multi-talented brother and sister duo of Ellie (17) and Lewis (15)
Both play the piano and are incredibly encouraging of each other’s talents. When they are not playing as a duo, Lewis accompanies Ellie on viola as she prepares for exams, and when time allows it, just for fun! Ellie and Lewis have both been supported by AYM for four years now, most recently through The Robert Lewin Awards.
They will perform together at the event, joining AYM Patron Jess Gillam and more brilliantly talented young musicians on AYM’s Awards programme. Do join us for what promises to be an eclectic evening. For tickets and more info visit the link below.
Ellie
17-year-old Ellie is no stranger to the concert platform. Currently studying music at the Junior Royal Northern College of Music (JRNCM), Ellie has been learning piano since the age of 5 and has huge admiration for the British born pianist, Stephen Hough. Ellie also fondly remembers her first performance with an orchestra, and it is memorable occasions like these that have motivated Ellie’s passion for a career in music.
Acing her GCSEs, Ellie has now started Year 13 at Winstanley College in Wigan where she is taking A levels in Music, Maths, and Biology. The relationship between the sciences and music is of great interest to Ellie and she is looking forward to exploring this in greater depth.
As a second study violist, Ellie revels in all the opportunities this allows her for chamber music and larger ensemble playing, not least being positioned as Principal Viola with the Hallé Youth Orchestra.
Ellie recently passed her LRSM piano performance diploma and was accepted into the National Youth Orchestra on orchestral piano for the 2022 winter residency. When she has a moment away from playing music, she likes graphing and transcribing pieces.
“I’m most looking forward to sharing what I’m passionate about with the audience, especially since it’s in a venue close to my heart”
Ellie
Lewis
A student at St. Peter’s Catholic High School in Orrell, Lewis followed in the footsteps of his older sister after watching her piano lessons from an early age. A fellow student at the JRNCM, Lewis enjoys playing in a piano quintet, accompanying the JRNCM Vocal Ensemble and learning classical guitar.
Lewis is a keen Manchester City football supporter – although Ellie is quick to point out that they also support their local team, Wigan Athletic! – and he goes to a Chess Club in Liverpool, regularly taking part in competitions. His grand prize total to date is £7.50!
Only 15 years of age, Lewis isn’t sure of his career path yet, but believes it will involve Maths and Music. He is currently awaiting the results of his ABRSM Diploma.
“I’m especially looking forward to performing Poulenc’s piano duet because the piece is very exciting and fun to play.”
Lewis
If you know or are a young musician in need of financial support you can apply for the Awards programme.
