The talents of an incredible young pianist from Pinner would inspire even the most accomplished musicians.
Arwin Vermeulen, 11, was named the winner of a gold medal and trophy in the Baroque/Classic 14 and under category of the Watford Festival on Saturday, February 15, adding yet more accolades to an already large collection.
This marks Arwin’s third gold medal win at the event, having won in 2018 when he was aged only four and again in 2023.
When he first entered the festival seven years ago, Arwin had just started playing piano for the first time, inspired by his older brother Tristan.
Tristan, who has won numerous trophies at other competitions in London, is currently studying at The Royal College of Music after graduating from The Purcell School for Young Musicians in 2021.
Speaking to Pinnernews about the competition, Arwin said: “In the beginning, I was not nervous but almost intimidated by some other people’s virtuoso piano playing, but soon I got into the flow.
“It felt very good to win, although participation is the most important thing about music festivals. You learn so much about how to be a good performer.”
Rehearsing for 30 minutes to one hour a day, Arwin shared one of the secrets to his ongoing success is that he “always think[s] that an adequate amount of practice with a lot of details and depth, is better than a lengthy but mechanical practice”.
He added: “Because practice should be efficient and rather pleasant, not painful. And memorising your music will help improve your confidence in competitions.”
Last September, Arwin joined Watford Grammar School for Boys after achieving a perfect score of 45/45 in his music entrance exam.
Since then, he has become one of the junior students selected to take part in the highly esteemed school musical production of Little Shop of Horrors.
A casual cello player and a lead singer in the school’s choir, Arwin’s ambition is to become an accomplished actor who can also sing and play music.
Arwin added: “Creating my own music is something I enjoy because it is at your own pace and can be relaxing.”
Keep up to date with Arwin on his YouTube channel @Arwin2024.
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