Gifted Croydon youngster lands dream prize after dazzling piano audition

Young pianist Ben Abraham has been awarded a sought-after music award at just 13 years old, making him one of the youngest winners of the prize.  

The annual Trinity-Steinway Scholarship is an award for talented young piano players and the result of a collaboration between Trinity School in Shirley Park, Croydon, the piano makers Steinway & Sons and the Royal College of Music (RCM).  

The scholarship enables students to benefit from lessons at the RCM, a masterclass in Poland and the opportunity to give recitals in Venice at the Steinway Hall and during the Trinity Piano Festival.  

Ben took part in the final auditions at the RCM alongside fellow students Zain Lam, 17, and Isaac Rogers, 14, with all three playing for Professor Vanessa Latarche.  

Although she was immensely impressed by all three students, Professor Latarche spotted something special in Ben’s musical conviction, as well as his brilliant technical display, and he was awarded the prize.  

Ben said: “I’m shocked. I never thought I would win this prize, but I’m absolutely delighted. Music is a way of life for me. I listen to it while studying, on the way to school. I feel it in me all the time.  

“I am excited for the Trinity-Steinway Scholarship. I know it will require a lot of dedication, but it is a big step for me as a musician, giving me the opportunity to mature and become more sophisticated in my approach.”  

Richard Evans, head of piano at Trinity School, said: “Ben is an exciting prospect indeed, and we very much look forward to watching his playing develop over the coming years.”  

Pictured top: Ben at the Steinway (Picture: Trinity School)