Success for Ben at Windsor Festival International String Competition

Tuesday 26 March 2013

RCM violinist Ben Baker has triumphed at the prestigious Fourth Windsor Festival International String Competition by winning both the First Prize and the Audience Prize.

The Windsor Festival International String Competition, perhaps the foremost competition of its kind in the world, seeks out the exceptional string soloists of tomorrow. This year there were 100 applicants from over 30 different countries. The 2013 Competition Final took place at Windsor Castle on Saturday 22 March, and the prizes were presented by HRH The Earl of Wessex.

Ben beat off competition from the seven other semi-finalists - some the world’s finest young string players - to be awarded the top prize fund valued at over £20,000. In addition, Ben has been awarded the opportunity to play a concerto with the Philharmonia Orchestra, the Competition’s associate orchestra, at the Windsor Festival in September 2013, and a solo recording opportunity with Champs Hill Records.

Ben, who is an ABRSM Scholar at the RCM studying with Natasha Boyarsky, said of his win: "Performing in the historic and inspiring surroundings of Windsor Castle was very special, and to come away with such a coveted prize has been quite overwhelming. I want to thank everyone for their kindness and support over the last week; the reality is still sinking in but I am already looking forward to returning to Windsor to play with The Philharmonia in September."