Barnet's young musicians reach finals of national competition (From Times Series)

Barnet's young musicians reach finals of Emunah Young Musician of the Year contest

2:32pm Thursday 21st February 2013 in News By Natalie O'Neill

Two talented young musicians from Barnet have been selected as finalists in a national music competition.

Fourteen-year-old pianist Joshua Daniel of Edgware and 11-year-old violinist Amos Sharp of Golders Green will compete for their chance to be crowned Emunah Young Musician of the Year next month.

The pair beat off competition to make it through to the finals - Joshua impressed judges with his “excellent performances” of Heller’s Etude and Jingo Shange, a traditional Chinese melody.

The Hasmonean High School pupil said: “I was very surprised to hear that I had got through to the finals.  I wasn’t expecting to be chosen because the other competitors were really good.”

Joshua started playing the piano when he was just six-years-old and has continued to practise for 20 minutes every day since.

Speaking about his passion, he said: “What I like about playing the piano is that it is very expressive, relieves stress, and helps to clear my mind.  I also like composing music.”

Meanwhile Amos is rehearsing for his moment in the spotlight. The Highgate School pupil said: “I was given a tiny 32nd sized violin at the age of two-and-a-half and I started playing then, trying to make the best sounds I could. 

“I practice for about two hours a day – sometimes more. My ambition is to be able to perform to and delight audiences all over the world at the highest possible standard.” 

Amos’s sister Aviva, nine, has also been nominated for a Most Promising Newcomer award.

The competition helps raise cash for Emunah charity, which supports 10,000 children who come from difficult backgrounds through its network of residential homes, counselling services, high schools and day care centres in Israel. Money will be raised through the sale of tickets and the winner of the competition will also receive a £500 prize for their school.

To attend the Emunah Young Musician of the Year concert on Sunday March 3 at the Royal College of Music contact Emunah on 0208 203 6066.