Youngster's three years of success
A YOUNG pianist's win at the Mrs Sunderland Music Festival meant he had scored a hat- trick of successes.
For Eliot McGuire, 13, who was named Best Kirklees Performer, had won awards in the previous two years.
Yesterday he was handed the prestigious David Cawthra Trophy after impressing with his performance in the piano recital class for pianists aged 12 to 14.
Eliot, from Lepton, said he was delighted to win the title in a competition to which he is no stranger.
He won the piano class for Years 12 and under last year - as he did the year before.
He said: "I was a little nervous before, but I really enjoyed the performance."
Eliot has been playing the piano for seven years. He also plays the saxophone.
His family are proud of his ability, and this summer he will play at his cousin's wedding.
And Eliot is not the only member of his family with musical talent.
His three younger brothers play the piano and have also done extremely well in the Huddersfield contest.
Brother Edward, 10, was commended for his performance last year.
His other brothers, Freddie, eight, and Jasper, seven, won their classes last year.
And Eliot's other brother, five-year-old Wesley, is keen to start lessons this year.
Yesterday, one of the festival's judges praised the wealth of talent he has witnessed in this year's competition.
Timothy Barratt said: "The standard has been very high and the quality of this festival is second to none.
"It's very good for young performers to have a chance to play in such a splendid venue as Huddersfield Town Hall."
