In order to receive the visual arts scholarship, students are judged on their portfolio and on their eight-page visual diary summarising their creative journey. Leader of Curriculum Jonathan Cameron was pleased to see so many of his students achieve such a high standard across the visual arts. 

Competitors came from New Zealand, Australia, China, the United Kingdom and Germany. Due to the impact of Covid, this year’s competition was online.

The results were announced recently and Matthew was surprised and delighted to hear that he was awarded Overall Winner for the Baroque Category, and 2nd Prize in the Cello Category for his age group (15-18 years old). The judges commented on the many virtuosic moments in his performance as well as his heartfelt interpretation of the Bach.

Matthew’s prizes include masterclasses with Ramon Jaffe, Professor in Dresden in Germany, and with Rosanne Hunt, Baroque Cellist from Melbourne, and an opportunity to perform in the Auckland Gala Concert in July 2021.