Prizewinners in 2009

All prizewinners since 1998 (inauguration)

Each year the Watford Festival of Music, Speech and Drama holds a piano competition in memory of Christopher Duke, who lived in Watford and who died in December 1996 at the age of 26.

Christopher’s talent as an accomplished pianist and percussionist was recognised by many distinguished musicians. Before the onset of the illness that dulled his later years he won many awards, both local and national. He enjoyed taking part in the Watford Festival on numerous occasions and was a very successful competitor.

This competition is open to performers aged 25 years and under. They are required to give a recital, from memory, lasting 30 minutes. The recital must include a waltz by Chopin, however, the remainder of the programme can be chosen freely by the competitor. The prizes awarded each year are £400 to the winner, second place £200 and third place £100.

We would like to thank all the contributors to the Christopher Duke Memorial Fund, whose generosity makes this event possible.

How to Enter

• There is a non-refundable entry fee of £15 and cheques should be made payable to ‘The Watford Festival’.

• The completed entry form must be accompanied by the entrance fee and a cassette or CD of the entrant playing approx. 15 minutes worth of music.

• Entries should be sent to the Christopher Duke Piano Recital Competition Administrator and must be received by Monday 15 February 2010.

• A maximum of eight competitors will be chosen to take part. Letters will be sent to all entrants informing them whether or not they have been chosen to take part. Cassettes and CDs will be returned when appropriate.