Young Croydon pianist wins Steinway Scholarship – Trinity School

Ben Abraham, from Croydon, has been awarded the prestigious Trinity-Steinway Scholarship at just 13 years old, making him one of the youngest winners of this prize.

The annual Trinity-Steinway Scholarship is a unique award and collaboration between Trinity School, Steinway & Sons and the Royal College of Music (RCM), supporting talented young pianists. The scholarship enables students to benefit from lessons at the RCM, a masterclass in Poland and the opportunity to give recitals in Venice, at the Steinway Hall and during the Trinity Piano Festival.

Ben took part in the final auditions at the RCM alongside fellow students Zain Lam (17) and Isaac Rogers (14) with all three playing for Professor Vanessa Latarche, Head of Keyboard. Although she was immensely impressed by the pianism displayed by all students, Professor Latarche spotted something special in Ben’s musical conviction as well as his brilliant technical display, and he was awarded the prize. Professor Latarche is very much looking forward to working with Ben this year and is excited by his prospects.   

Ben said, “I’m shocked, I never thought I would win this prize, but I’m absolutely delighted. Music is a way of life for me, I listen to it while studying, on the way to school, I feel it in me all the time. I am excited for the Trinity-Steinway Scholarship; I know it will require a lot of dedication, but it is a big step for me as a musician, giving me the opportunity to mature and become more sophisticated in my approach.”

Richard Evans, Head of Piano at Trinity School, said, “Ben is an exciting prospect indeed and we very much look forward to watching his playing develop over the coming years.” 

Former student Amiri Harewood was also 13 years old when he was selected for the Trinity-Steinway Scholarship, and he went on to receive many musical awards and accolades including Trinity Musician of the Year. Amiri is currently studying at the Royal College of Music on a full scholarship, which was awarded in recognition of his talent. 

Trinity became the first All Steinway School in London in 2012 and now benefits from an impressive fleet of 25 pianos, including two model D concert grand pianos and five further grand pianos. The Steinway Suite is the first teaching facility of its kind in the world, offering exceptional practice and research facilities.