27 January 2026

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International Trumpet Star Matilda Lloyd Inspires Essex Musicians

26th January 2026

Young trumpeters from across Essex were given a fantastic opportunity when Ongar Music Club welcomed internationally acclaimed trumpeter Matilda Lloyd for a dynamic masterclass and recital at Budworth Hall, Ongar, on Sunday 23 November 2025. Applications to participate in the prestigious masterclass opened in the autumn, offering nine talented musicians aged 12–26 a rare and exciting chance to learn from one of the world’s leading brass performers. 

Organised by Ongar Music Club with support from the Essex Young Musicians Trust (EYMT) and the Belinda Starling Memorial Fund, which are both held by ECF, the masterclass provided a full day of coaching, performance, and musical exploration. 

The afternoon sessions featured a varied programme, from concertos by Haydn, Hummel, and Arutjunian to works by Bernstein, Copland, Sparke, and Vizzutti. Matilda Lloyd’s coaching focused on tone, musical expression, and performance confidence, supported throughout by pianist Joanna Smith. Audience members were invited to observe the sessions, gaining valuable insight into top level musicianship. 

“I really enjoyed attending and playing in the masterclass and Matilda was incredibly helpful and very nice! The masterclass helped me to improve my piece by making me think about how I wanted it to come across to the audience and what character I gave each section. I have already bought a new mouthpiece which Matilda recommended, and I plan to use the rest of the bursary towards lessons and buying music. I want to carry on improving on the trumpet and see where it takes me!” – Ariana Wilson, EYMT Norman Harper Bursary recipient 

The day concluded with a public recital and the presentation of four bursaries awarded at Matilda Lloyd’s discretion: 

  • The EYMT Norman Harper Bursary (£500 each) for the most promising performer aged 12–18 was awarded to Lucas Rebel and Ariana Wilson. 
  • The Belinda Starling Award (£500 each) for the most outstanding performer aged 19–26 was awarded to Alexander Rebel and Kerensa Newcombe. 

This masterclass reflects Ongar Music Club’s ongoing commitment to supporting and inspiring young musicians in Essex, showing how targeted funding can open doors to world-class tuition and performance opportunities.