Lucy Daniels, 11, won her piano solo in the 12 years and under class at the IW Musical Competition Festival. Picture by Jennifer Burton.
PIANO perfectionist Lucy Daniels may have won a cup but felt her performance of a tricky Haydn piece was the worst she had ever played it.
The gifted 11-year-old, a student of Christ the King College, Newport, said she wanted to set herself a challenge in the landmark 80th Isle of Wight Musical Competition Festival by performing the classic, Vivace Assai.
Adjudicator Roger Crocker said he was impressed by Lucy’s performance and awarded her 88 marks.
Lucy, who is taught piano by Ryde-based Jo Jolliffe, said: "I like the upbeat tempo of this piece. It is exciting because there is lots of moving of the fingers across the keyboard. I like to set myself a challenge.
"It is probably the worst I have ever played this piece, so I’m very pleased to have won. This was my third festival appearance and I feel I’ve improved each time I have taken part in it.
"My cousin, Hannah Caudle, who has also performed in the festival, has been an inspiration to me."
Lucy, who also enjoys being a singer-songwriter, performs in a band called Bittersweet, with her friends.
• More reports, pictures and results from the Isle of Wight Musical Competition Festival in the Friday, March 19, County Press.
Reporter: jonm@iwcpmail.co.uk