Gifted Rathfarnham musician reaches finals of tribute show

PHOEBE White from Rathfarnham has been shortlisted to play in the national final of the Bank of Ireland’s Catherine Judge Memorial Award.

Phoebe, a student at the Royal Irish Academy of Music, will perform along with the other finalists in front of a distinguished jury at the Grand Final in the Great Hall at Queens University on Saturday, April 18.

This is the ninth year of The Catherine Judge Memorial Award which aims to support a new generation of musical talent. It is presented annually to an exceptional solo classical musician who wishes to pursue third-level music education.

The winner of the award will receive a bursary of £5,000 or the euro equivalent amount towards their musical studies and, for the first time in the history of the award, their nominated school or society will receive £1,000 or euro equivalent amount.

The award was created as a lasting tribute to Catherine Judge, an employee of Bank of Ireland UK, who passed away in August 2005. Catherine had a great love of music and loved to see young people get opportunities to grow and develop.

Laura Lynch, Head of Youth at Bank of Ireland, said:

“This award is a fantastic opportunity for young musicians in Ireland. I would like to congratulate the shortlisted students on reaching the final stage of the award and look forward to hearing them perform in front of the judging panel.

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Abigail McDonagh, a violinist and last year’s winner, added:

“The Bank of Ireland Catherine Judge Memorial Award is a unique competition set apart from any other as it offers an invaluable musical experience and considerable financial support for young musicians.

“As well as providing a goal and a performance platform, it creates opportunities which otherwise would not be possible for young music students.

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