The Brisbane Boys’ College Concerto Competition requires students to perform repertoire that is seen as the pinnacle of solo performance. By definition, the concerto demands that the soloist is challenged both musically and technically. The first round of the BBC competition sees students perform two contrasting movements of a concerto. If selected for the Finals round, students are required to perform the full concerto with piano accompaniment. The 2019 Finals were contested by five finalists performing some of the greatest works from the genre.

This year’s finalists were Leonardo L (Violin), Nathan K (Saxophone), Andrew N (Violin), Matthew Z (Piano) and Gaviru D (Percussion).

The adjudicator, Associate Professor Peter Luff (Queensland Conservatorium of Music, Griffith University) commented on the high standard of performances by each finalist.

The 2019 BBC Concerto Competition Winner trophy was awarded to Year 8 student, Leonardo L. Leonardo is heavily involved in the College ensemble program leading the second Violin section of College Strings and College Symphony, and he is the youngest student to win the Brisbane Boys’ College Concerto Competition. Leonardo has been selected to represent BBC at both Junior and Senior GPS Music Days.

Leonardo started playing the violin at age 4 and has learned under Michael Patterson and Dr Brendan Joyce. In his 10 years of violin playing, he has achieved several awards such as a High Distinction in his Eighth Grade AMEB exam and First place in the Austa Queensland Senior Concerto Competition 2018. Last year, Leonardo was invited to participate in a masterclass with Dr Robin Wilson. He also regularly competes in eisteddfods throughout Brisbane. In his spare time, Leonardo enjoys performing and making music with his two older brothers.