2016 Awardee: Andrew Birse
"I am extremely grateful to the Dewar Awards for helping me to fulfil my dream of studying violin at a prestigious conservatoire. I am passionate about music and will work hard towards achieving a career in violin performance."
Biography
Andrew is a highly dedicated violinist who strives for excellence, and whose dream has always been to become a professional musician of the highest calibre.
Born in Aberdeen, Andrew has played with many local orchestras including the Aberdeen Sinfonietta and the Aberdeen Chamber Orchestra, as well as the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain. He was the deputy leader of the Grampian Youth Orchestra and the principal 2nd violin for the National Youth Orchestra of Scotland, playing in the Royal Albert Hall for the BBC Proms as part of their tour.
As well as playing in orchestras, Andrew has a great interest in chamber and choral music. He has been a chorister at St. Machar’s Cathedral in Aberdeen and was a member of the Aberdeen Bach Choir. He has played in various quartets and ensembles, including the Scottish Ensemble on their “Concerts by Candlelight” tour around Scotland.
Andrew gained a place to study at the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester. This provided him with the opportunity to hone his skills and take the next steps towards achieving his dream.
How the Award Helped
Andrew received an Award to support him in his studies at the Royal Northern College of Music. This enabled him to develop his skills as a musician, as well as share his ‘fire’ and passion for music with others.
"I am extremely grateful to the Dewar Awards for helping me to fulfil my dream of studying violin at a prestigious conservatoire. I am passionate about music and will work hard towards achieving a career in violin performance."