Wensum Trust student wins Young Musician of the Year

But sixteen-year-old Iryna Oliinyk, who is a Year 11 student at Alderman Peel High School, has overcome more obstacles than most in pursuit of her dreams after moving to Norfolk just four years ago when her family was forced to flee war-torn Ukraine.

“I moved to the UK when I was 12 years old,” she explained. “My mum, my brother, my sister, and I came to the UK following the Russian invasion. We were very grateful to our sponsors, Lord and Lady Leicester of Holkham, for supporting us when we arrived.”

Now Young Musician of the Year, the talented pianist was previously runner-up in the prestigious competition for three years running, supported by her teachers and her mother, Nataliia Oliinyk.

“My biggest inspiration is my mum,” she said. “She has been a professional and a teacher in Ukraine, and seeing how hard she works inspires me every day.

“My first piano teacher, Diana Nikulina, also inspired me from Year 1 to take part in regional competitions. In my first competition, I was awarded fourth place. It wasn’t a top result, but when I heard my name announced, I couldn’t stop smiling. It motivated me to keep improving.”

Besides piano, Iryna plays the violin, and sings in her school choir.

“My mum decided that I should learn an instrument, because she wanted me to develop discipline and strong skills, as well as the opportunities that come through music and performing,” she continued.

“Her support has helped me to achieve success in competitions such as the Rotary Young Musicians Award and the EPTA Piano Competition.

“I have also been supported by EPTA UK, who provided a bursary for my music lessons. My teachers in both Ukraine and England have supported and guided me, and each of them has helped me develop as a pianist and grow in confidence.

“I don’t know exactly where my musical career will lead, but I want to take every opportunity. I am exploring joining the Royal Academy of Music’s Junior Programme in London on Saturdays. It is expensive, so I hope to fundraise or find sponsorship.

“I also want to perform more solo concerts on a larger scale in the future.”

Alderman Peel’s Lead Teacher of Peripatetic Music, Benjamin Howell, praised Iryna’s performance in the Young Musician of the Year.

“I have worked with Iryna for several years as her piano teacher, supported by the Music Team at Alderman Peel High School,” he said. “Together, we nurture her talent, prepare her for performances, and provide opportunities for her to develop.

“Her achievement is exceptional. It reflects years of dedication and consistent excellence. I am always impressed by her musicality, professionalism, and strong work ethic across all areas of school life.”

“We are all incredibly proud of Iryna’s achievements since joining Alderman Peel High School, and it is wonderful to see her talents as a young musician recognised by this award,” added School Principal Matt Hardman.
“Iryna plays our grand piano in school on a near-daily basis, and it is always a pleasure to stop and appreciate her skill. We are very fortunate to have her as a part of our school.”