It is a pleasure to feel that, just by attending this concert on a Sunday in mid-May, we are encouraging students who, in some ten years' time, may be international celebrities. These were eight students of the Purcell School of Music, Bushey, aged from eleven to 15, performing at the Clarendon Muse under the auspices of the Octagon Music Society.

The youngest, Songeun Choi, from South Korea, played two piano pieces by Moszkowski, well known as a talented composer in a light classical vein. Her agility at the keyboard promises well for her musical development in the next few years.

Pianists feel obliged to tackle the formidable challenges set by Liszt. Sacha Gracheva (Russia) played his Sonetta 123 del Petrarca. Her technique is formidable for her age (14), but has still to grow beyond the mechanical. Later, Lara Omeroglu (UK) (15) showed what can happen in only a year or two. She embarked with confidence on Liszt's Sonetta 104 del Petrarca. The two hands were well co-ordinated, and it was a delight to hear the soft tone of some very high notes. For me, she was the star of the evening.

From so much talent, it is hard to pick out another for special mention. Perhaps the most musically ambitious offering was by Akito Goto (Japan) (14), who played Five Pieces in Folk Style for cello and piano (op.102) by Schumann. Throughout, he showed reliable technique, good partnership with the piano and and even tone - perhaps too even, as Schumann's directions suggest more contrasts in speed, rhythm and expression. As he becomes more accustomed to the concert platform, he will be better able to enjoy his own playing.

Young players need, of course, confidence, technique and commitment. There should also be that indefinable something - stage presence, perhaps - which is cultivated by experience such as this evening's. Watch out for the progress of all eight students!

Graham Mordue