Double awards successis music to Abby's ears

Abby McKinlay (17), a 5th year pupil at Douglas Academy, took on allcomers to earn the titles over two weeks of intensive competition.

She was successful in winning the Forbes Memorial Certificate for Vocal Solos and, on the last night of the festival, won the Agnes Duncan Trophy for singing.

Abby told The Herald: “I am so honoured and privileged to have won the Agnes Duncan Trophy for singing as well as the certificate prize for vocal solos at Glasgow Music Festival - chuffed is an understatement.”

Abby’s dad, James McKinlay, said: “Abby has loved music since she was a young girl and began to take it more seriously when she joined The music school of Douglas Academy under the direction of its course director Mr Mark Evans.

“Abby currently studies both voice and trombone and is involved in choirs, ensembles and orchestras within the school.

“Her singing teacher, Ruth Dean, has been inspirational in helping Abby to develop her voice leading to her current success. Abby enjoys singing a wide variety of music ranging from classical to musical theatre and also enjoys song writing.

“This summer Abby is excited to be a member of The National Youth Choir of Scotland.

“In this year’s Glasgow Music Festival Abby obtained seven first places in performances ranging from vocal solos, duets, choirs and orchestra culminating in winning the Agnes Duncan Trophy on the final night of the Music Festival.”