A classical music society is to focus on talented musicians from within the Isle of Man after the pandemic has given the organisers cause to re-think their programme.

The Ramsey Music Society begins its winter programme of monthly concerts next week, with the first being a performance from several talented young musicians, who are still studying at school or college.

Among the classical pianists taking part are Ballakermeen student Rong Xiao, aged 15, who will perform music by Chopin and Turina, and Isle of Man College student Tinka Gorgeiva, 16, who will also perform Chopin along with Mozart.

Also playing the piano are King William’s College students Luca Ongyerth and Stefan Fong, both 17, who will perform music by Rachmaninov and Debussy, and Castle Rushen student Amy Bloch, 15, who will perform two contrasting pieces, by Beethoven and George Gershwin.

There will be performances by euphonium player, Ben Smith, 15, from Ramsey Grammar School, who will play music by Höhne and there will also be performances from two singers, baritone Robert Bostrom, 17, from King William’s College and the current Young Singer of Man Evie Skillicorn, who will sing ’June’ by RogerQuilter and ’Popular’, from the musical ’Wicked’.

The joint performance will take place at the Ramsey Grammar School on Monday, October 19, from 7.30pm, with guests including Lieutenant Governor Sir Richard Gozney and Lady Gozney.

The society is unable to bring international musicians to the island because of the border restrictions and will take the opportunity to provide a stage for resident musicians.

International pianist Olga Eggert has organised the concert and will accompany the performance.

’Obviously we were forced to cancel our programme after the borders closed, so we decided to do more to promote local talent instead,’ said Olga.

’It is a good opportunity to showcase the many talented people here on the island, with musicians both young and old.’

Tickets for the concert, which has been supported by the Isle of Man Arts Council, are £10 for adults, with free entry for students, available on the door.