Park Mains High student performs at national music finals

Renfrewshire trumpet player Ash Paton showcased her exceptional musical talent at the Scottish Young Musician national final.

The fifth-year pupil at Park Mains High School, Erskine, successfully made it to the national final in the Solo Performer of the Year category after winning in the Renfrewshire regional heat.

Ash performed the third movement of the Hummel Trumpet Concerto at the event held at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland. She is one of 33 entrants who made it through to the final leg of the competition.

Two young pipers, Ellie Harrison and Rebecca Smiley from Johnstone High School who are part of the Renfrewshire Schools Pipe Band, opened the competition with their music. Both Ash and the pipe band are supported by Renfrewshire Council’s Renfrewshire Music Service.

Ash said the experience of being at the national final inspired her to perform at her very best. She explained: “It was genuinely awe inspiring. Coming from a very brass band background, we take part in competitions all the time—both in a solo and ensemble setting.

“Getting to compete against such a high standard really pushes you to perform at your finest. It has shown me what putting in hard work can do. It is also a great experience to see people from all over Scotland perform, not just people from the Central Belt.”

Councillor Emma Rodden, convener of Renfrewshire Council’s Education and Children’s Services Policy Board, praised Ash’s achievement. She said: “Ash’s success is a fantastic reflection of both her commitment and the strength of music education in Renfrewshire.

“Music plays a vital role in young people’s development and I’m incredibly proud that we support talented young musicians like Ash in Renfrewshire. Reaching the national finals is a phenomenal achievement and Ash should feel very proud of the dedication and hard work she put in to achieve that.”