Congratulations go to euphonium Masters student Philippe Schwartz, who has just completed his studies at the RNCM and gained a historic and incredible result from his final Masters Performance recital recently, gaining a score of 100, full marks , a unanimous verdict from the panel of experts. As far as we know this is the first time a brass student has ever scored a perfect 100 in a final recital at this prestigious institution. Philippe hails from Luxembourg, and has been in the UK for the last 5 years, studying euphonium with Steven Mead, Senior Tutor at the RNCM. He also has been playing 2nd euphonium with Grimethorpe Colliery during his time in the UK.
Philippe's historic recital on May 30th contained all original works for euphonium.
He began with the sparkling ‘Sonata for Euphonium' by John Reeman, and continued with a contemporary work, the 4 movement ‘Mosaique' by the French composer Roger Boutry.
A sensational new work for euphonium and electronics followed. Going under the title ‘iPhonium' the RNCM composer Roderick Skipp produced a work thought by many as probably the best new of its genre that the low brass world has seen. Needless to say Philippe played it perfectly, as he did the final two works, ‘Elegie' byPeter Meechan for Euphonium and Brass Quintet, finishing with the fiendishly difficult ‘Euphoria' by Derek Bourgeois. Steven Mead commented , "Since coming to the UK and the RNCM Philippe has been the model student, hard working, always pushing himself to the limit and trying to be perfect in everything he does. With this historic perfect score at the RNCM it's clear that the hard work paid off and Philippe should be extremely proud, as am I." Philippe plans to stay in the Manchester area,build up a teaching studio, expand his love for conducting and keep playing to the high standard he has set for himself. Philippe is also hoping to have a career as a professional euphonium soloist.
For programme notes on these pieces , look in the 'articles' section on this site