Gifted German pianist Joel Madalinski-Artur was named as the winner of the prestigious Gregynog Young Musician 2024.

He impressed the judging panel, comprising of performers and teachers, in the Grand Final at Gregynog Hall, near Tregynon on Saturday, November 16.

President of the Gregynog Young Musician Lord Daniel Davies, whose parents, the late Lord and Lady Davies, were long associated with the competition, said: "The competition's reputation and ability to attract the finest young talent from across the UK and beyond gets stronger every year.

"Those who were lucky enough to be there experienced some astonishing musical performances."

The competition also featured exceptional performances from four other finalists including Welsh harpist Erin Fflur Jardine, Shropshire violinist Una Pavlovic-Alldridge, recorder player Hassan Marzban and violinist Zhengyuan Yuan.

Competition winner Joel, who won a trophy and £3,000,  will be invited to return to perform in the annual Gregynog Competition Summer Concert, which has also given a platform to young local performers such as Ysgol Pontrobert, Ysgol Llanidloes and Hafren Youth Strings.

Powys-raised Patron and Professor of Harp at the Royal College of Music Ieuan Jones added: "Yet again we have witnessed a fabulous day of young musicians competing for our annual award.

"After 20 years we continue to encourage young musicians who are moving forward into the music industry.

"I feel our efforts are needed more and more as support for the arts is being cut. Please help us to continue with our efforts."

Anyone who would like to know more about the competition, please contact the secretary by sending an email to sec@gregynogymc.co.uk