participants from sherborne and sušice

Sherborne, UK – Sherborne Douzelage has proudly marked the return of its long-awaited Young Musician’s Festival, bringing together talented young performers for a full day of music, creativity, and international collaboration.

Following weeks of unsettled weather, the day began under bright skies—an encouraging sign as 28 young musicians gathered at the Gransden Hall, Sherborne Girls’ School. The festival featured a full programme of daytime heats, culminating in a Finalists’ Concert in the evening that showcased the very best of emerging musical talent.

Overall winner Betsy Chow is presented with her winning trophy

The competition welcomed participants not only from the Sherborne area but also from Sušice, a fellow Douzelage member town in the Czech Republic—highlighting the strong cultural connections at the heart of the Douzelage network.

Festival Winners

• Junior Musician of the Year 2026 – Elizabeth Doggrell
• Intermediate Musician of the Year 2026 – Matilda Vermaak
• Senior Musician of the Year 2026 – Betsy Chow
• Overall Young Musician of the Year 2026 – Betsy Chow

Betsy Chow’s outstanding performances across the competition earned her the top honour of the festival.

Jan from Sušice following his performance

This year’s event marks a significant milestone. Originally conceived several years ago, the Young Musician’s Festival last took place in 2020—just days before COVID-19 lockdowns brought events to a halt. Its revival in 2026 represents a meaningful return for the Sherborne Douzelage community.

The festival was organised by Dr Rachel Milestone, Director of Music at Leweston School and Sherborne’s Education Representative, with invaluable support from Moira and a dedicated team behind the scenes. Their efforts ensured a smooth and successful event for all involved.

A total of 26 students officially took part, including three from Sušice. While Meerssen had hoped to participate, they were unable to attend this time. However, there is strong enthusiasm to expand the event further, with plans to include more Douzelage towns in future editions.

The Sušice participants with their certificates of participation.

The festival is set to become a bi-annual event, strengthening cultural ties across Douzelage while providing a platform for young musicians to perform internationally.

As part of Sherborne’s wider musical calendar, it has been agreed that this year’s winners will perform at the Sherborne Abbey Festival in May 2026. A special concert is scheduled for 7th May at 1:00pm, which will also feature the visiting Czech students—continuing the spirit of collaboration beyond the competition itself.

This successful revival not only celebrates musical excellence but also reinforces the importance of cultural exchange, friendship, and opportunity within the Douzelage network.

Charlotte from Sušice played the saxophone during the event.