Ukrainian pianist Iryna Oliinyk, who lives in Wells-next-the-Sea, offered a place at the prestigious Guildhall School of Music and Drama
“I was incredibly happy and excited when I found out about getting into Guildhall’s Junior Academy," says Iryna, "Because it has always been my dream to study there, so it felt unreal that it had come true.”
The 16 year old's overcome more obstacles than most in pursuit of her dreams, four years ago her family was forced to flee war-torn Ukraine.
Now a Year 11 student at Alderman Peel High School in Wells, Iryna recently won the regional final of the Rotary's Young Musician competition.
“Just before Easter, Iryna attended an audition at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, where she performed two contrasting piano works: ‘Elegy’ by Sergei Rachmaninoff and ‘Arabesque No.1’ by Claude Debussy,” explained Benjamin Howell, Lead Teacher of Peripatetic Music at Alderman Peel.
“Following this, she received confirmation that she had been awarded a place on the Junior Programme, commencing in September 2026.
“This is a year-on-year programme, providing Iryna with specialist tuition from highly regarded teachers, alongside opportunities to perform and further develop her musicianship and technical ability.”
Mr Howell says the school's been supporting Iryna and her family with fundraising efforts, including grant applications and a GoFundMe page. Fees and travel costs come to more than 5 thousand pounds a year.
The teenager adds, “My biggest inspiration is my mum. Seeing how hard she works inspires me every day.
“I’m also really grateful to Alderman Peel High School for the encouragement and opportunities.”
All images Ian Burt