A TALENTED flautist has reached a crescendo after succeeding on a national stage.
Stokelsey School student Lilly Smith won the U13 category of the British Flute Society School Performer Competition, staged in London.
The Year 8 musician competed against students from all over the country wowing the judges with her rendition of Debussy’s Syrinx.
Lilly, 12, began playing the flute five years ago following a taster session when teachers spotted her natural ability for an instrument considered notoriously difficult to master.
She now practises every day for a half hour before and after school and plays at the weekends.
Lilly successfully auditioned for the celebrated Tees Valley Youth Orchestra at the age of 11.
For the past two years she has also secured a place with the acclaimed National Children’s Orchestra as one of just five young flautists.
As part of the National Children’s Orchestra, she is invited to take part in three residential sessions a year with some of the most talented musicians in the country, the next one being during the Easter holidays.
Lilly, who plays Grade 8 pieces, said: “I do love the flute and enjoyed playing it straight away. I hope to study music to GCSE and A level. It would be great to continue playing and enjoying my music for as long as possible.”
Stokelsey School head teacher Catherine Brooker said: “Lilly is incredibly talented and we are all so proud of her achievements.
“We have no doubts that she will achieve any goal she sets herself and she acts as a great role model for the rest of the school.”