Congratulations Oliver Woods, Year 13 who has achieved his ABRSM Diploma (Diploma of The Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music).
Ollie has been playing the piano since he was 6, he has recently achieved Grade 8 and ARSM (Diploma), both with distinctions. He also plays the Organ and sings, Oliver has his singing diploma exam this month. We asked Ollie how RHS has supported him and what has been the best opportunity so far.
He comments, “Music is such a huge part of my life here at RHS and the emphasis and support music students receive is fantastic. The music staff are all incredibly talented and dedicated and always push you to do your best. I have been able to perform in many prestigious concerts and venues, we even sang in Westminster Abbey a few weeks ago. I have been given many solo opportunities beyond school to develop my performing ability.”
Ollie decided to do the diploma as it was the next step in order to advance his playing - it is purely performance, so has different areas to focus on. He had to play for 30 minutes in total and almost took the form of a recital. He learnt 5 different pieces for the exam.
We asked Ollie what's next after RHS?
He comments “Music is a huge part of my life, I definitely want to continue with it. I am hoping to sing with a choral scholarship at Durham Cathedral while I am at university there and will look for many other performance opportunities. Music doesn't form a part of what I envisage doing for a career, but the brilliant thing is it can always be something you do on the side and for your own enjoyment.”