Article by Brian Cape (Chief Executive Officer, SIPS Education)
The historic West Bromwich Library was the setting for our final recognition night of the term, and this time it was our pleasure to be handing out the awards. On Monday 11th July we celebrated the brightest musical talent of Sandwell.
Across each music category there was two award types: Music Centre Group Award, which is based on peer-nominations; and the Above and Beyond Award selected by their SIPS group-tutor in recognition of students that have made an outstanding overall contribution to their ensemble.
And the winners are:
| Group | Music Centre Group Award | Above & Beyond Group Award |
| Mini Maestros | Emily | Shaina |
| Intermediate String Orchestra | Rachel | Macca |
| Training String Orchestra | Claudia | Alanna |
| Big Top Band | Maisie | Olivia |
| Intermediate Concert Band | Eloise | Aariyana |
| Youth Concert Band | Remi | Peter |
| Jazz Orchestra | Isobelle | James |
| Band Together | Keiran | Niamh |
| Tuesday Coffee Social | Dylan | Reegan |
| Intermediate Brass Band | Emily | Jude |
| Youth Brass Band | Bradley | Jonathan |
One deserving Overall Winner was selected to round-off the night – the performer whom the judges consider to have made the most significant contribution, impact and commitment to music-making…step forward Dylan.
Dylan started his music journey as a year 4 student at Grove Vale, playing drum kit and cornet. In terms of brass, over the years he’s moved onto bigger instruments and now plays the tuba. He’s also a keen guitarist and vocalist in the rock bands. Currently performing with Band Together, Tuesday Coffee Social and Youth Brass Band, he has also been part of the Concert Orchestra project, as well as the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire Youth Brass programme during Easter ‘23. Dylan is currently finishing year 11 at Q3 Great Barr; his progression through the music centre groups over the years has been inspirational and it has been a privilege for so many staff to teach and work with him through instrumental lessons and ensemble rehearsals.
Congratulations to Dylan and an amazing line-up of talent.
