Gifted student scoops inaugural Ogston Music Prize

A gifted Aberdeen student has been awarded a highly prestigious prize in recognition of their exceptional musical abilities.

University of Aberdeen student Petra Paskova scooped the inaugural Ogston Music Prize on Thursday evening (17^th April) following a hotly contended competition ceremony at the city's Cowdray Hall.

This is the inaugural year of the Ogston Music Prize, which recognises outstanding musical performance.  The award has been created by Professor Derek Ogston CBE LLD FRSE, a former Senior Vice-Principal of the University of Aberdeen.

Petra took home the £1000 cash prize for her award winning piano performance.  Having graduated from Music Conservatoire in the Czech Republic, Petra is continuing her studies at the University where she is in the third year of a Bachelor of Music degree.  A gifted pianist, Petra has studied her instrument alongside many distinguished musicians from within the field including Magda Stajnochrova and Florian Uhlig. 

Fellow finalists taking part in the event were pianist Richard Bailey, flutist Aurélie Farcette and trumpet player Dean Bromage.

Dr Paul Mealor, Senior Lecturer in Music at the University of Aberdeen says: "The Ogston Prize showcases the tremendous talent of musically gifted students from within the University of Aberdeen. 

"The four students competing for this prestigious accolade were exceptionally gifted individuals who gave outstanding performances at the event.   Petra's winning performance was a delight to witness, providing a perfect example of the high calibre of musical talent which the University is nurturing. 

"We are extremely grateful to Professor Ogston for creating this esteemed prize and look forward to continuing to reward the abilities of musically gifted students in years to come."