Classical Notes: €5k award is music to the ears of aspiring young musicians

The Frank Maher Classical Music Awards, founded to honour the memory of a much-loved music teacher, celebrate their 20th anniversary this autumn

Julieanne Forrest from Johnstown in Navan, Co Meath, last year’s winner of the €5,000 Top Security/Frank Maher Classical Music Awards. Picture: Peter Houlihan

The Frank Maher Classical Music Awards have been one of the most significant recent additions to Ireland’s school curriculum. The event has become instrumental in showcasing talent that could otherwise have gone unnoticed during the hectic drive for Leaving Cert success.

Now with a first prize of €5,000, the awards began in 2001 and are about to celebrate their 20th anniversary. The roll-call of outstanding recipients includes pianists Kevin Jansson, Aidan Chan and Marie Carroll, ...