Two youngsters will be packing their bags and jetting off to Los Angeles to live the American Dream - thanks to The New Year’s Day Parade - London. The amazing prize package won by the plucky pair includes a week studying in an American high School.
 
Amy Hiller from Barnet and Harry Dyer from Surrey beat hopefuls from across the Capital when they won the Young Musician Competition – a pulsating prize that will see the pair perform before a huge TV audience on New Year’s Day.

Scores of entries were received from talented teenagers aged 15-18 across the capital, playing either percussion, brass or woodwind instruments to a level of grade four or above. Seven exceptional entrants were chosen to audition in front of a panel of judges at a central London hotel.

All seven finalists impressed the judging panel with their performances but only two could be triumphant, and 16 year old Amy who plays the Clarinet and 15 year old Harry who plays the flute, were a cut above the rest.

BBC London presenter Sadie Nine, who was on the judging panel said “I was very impressed with the level of talent, but unfortunately there can only be two winners. Amy and Harry have won a life changing experience.”

The lucky two will fly to Los Angeles in December, spend a night in a top class hotel and then join their American host family for five nights. They will attend Woodbridge High School in Irvine California, join the school band and perform at the School’s Christmas concert.

Their fun does not end when they return to the UK. The budding musicians will enjoy a fabulous reunion with their new found friends on New Year’s Day when they once again perform with the band before hundreds of thousands on the streets of The West End, at The New Year’s Day Parade – London.

The New Year’s Day Parade media partner, BBC London 94.9, will regularly update their listeners on all developments and will be part of the party on New Year’s Day.

The parade annually marks the turning of a New Year with more than 20 London boroughs and around 6,500 performers, from half a dozen nations, participating in the event along the 2.2 mile route.

Marching bands, cheerleaders, clowns, vintage vehicles and giant helium filled cartoon balloons will all display a spectacular kaleidoscope, filling the streets with music as they parade along to the exuberant crowds.

For further media information and images please contact:
Dan Kirkby / Lisa Morgan: 020 7580 3232

Official Website: www.londonparade.co.uk