YOUNG jazz composer Dan Parkes has beaten off competition from nearly 2,000 other budding musicians to reach the final of a national competition.
The 16-year-old trombonist, from Fareham, has been shortlisted for the Sibelius Student Composer of the Year 2008 contest.
He beat 1,800 other ten to 18-year-olds to reach the final stages of the fight for the title.
The Brookfield Community School pupil’s jazz composition is being put to the public vote, then the votes will carry the same weight as the judges’ scores when the winner is determined.
Star judges include Quantum of Solace composer David Arnold and soundtrack composer Dario Marianelli.
If Dan wins, he will have his composition performed at the awards ceremony at London’s Royal Academy of Music, as well as receiving £500 and a music master class with one of the judges. His school would also receive Sibelius composition computer software, keyboards and speakers.
Dan said: “It would be absolutely wicked to win. I would love to have a master class with one of the jazz pioneers, as it would help me develop my skills as a composer and my understanding of jazz.
“I’ve got until New Year’s Eve to persuade as many people as possible to listen to my piece and, if they like it, to vote for me to win.
“I’m getting everyone I know to vote for me, including the Hampshire Youth Jazz Orchestra and the Southampton Youth Jazz Orchestra. The more votes the better!”
Public voting closes at midday on New Year’s Eve.
The winner will be announced on January 14.
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