A YOUNG trumpet player from Barnsley has become one of the youngest people in the UK to attain the highest possible grade in music exams other than degree-level music studies.
Ethan Cawood, 11, of Priest Royd, Darton, passed his grade eight of the Associated Board of Royal Schools of Music with a merit.
A grade eight is the highest grade a student can achieve prior to degree level studies and to attain this merit standard Ethan had to achieve at least 120 marks out of a possible 150.
Barnsley Youth Jazz Association’s joint musical director, Danny Hammerton, said: “It’s an amazing achievement for someone so young to pass their grade eight exam on their chosen instrument.
“We’ve had lots of fun along the way, but Ethan’s motivation and true Yorkshire grit has propelled him to this fantastic result. It has taken a lot of focused practice and dedication to achieve what only a handful of students gain at this young age.
“Ethan is also an active member of the Barnsley Youth Jazz Association performing in our swing band and jazz orchestra on a regular basis.
“Ethan’s achievement is notable because ABRSM grade eight may be used in obtaining a place at university or college. On a national level it is rarely achieved or even attempted at such a young age.”
Ethan’s parents, Loraine and Andrew Cawood, said: “We are thrilled for Ethan that he has achieved his grade eight trumpet.”
