I wish I could launch into some classical gem

Apr 11 2008 by Karen Price, Western Mail

I WISH I could play a musical instrument.

And I don’t just mean a late-night version of “chopsticks” on the piano or a rendition of Silent Night on the recorder either.

I would love to be able to sit at a piano or pick up a flute or a violin and launch into some classical gem which would leave people speechless.

Unfortunately, it’s too late now for me to become a musical prodigy but their are millions of gifted young performers out there who are wowing audiences with their talents – and many of them are still at school.

During the next 10 days, the Welsh capital will be hosting one of the world’s greatest violin contests – the Menuhin Competition.

Founded by the late great violinist Yehudi Menuhin, it will feature 42 musicians under the age of 22 battling it out for the title.

And not only will people in Wales be able to see and hear these names of the future but they will also be able to enjoy concerts by those who are already world renowned, including Joshua Bell, Maxim Vengerov and our very own harpist Catrin Finch.

Earlier this week I spoke to Menuhin’s youngest son, Jeremy Menuhin, a pianist. He told me all about his father and his views on competitions, which are actually quite surprising.

To read his thoughts and find out more about the competition click here.

When I’m not immersed in the arts world, I’m busy planning a long-awaited trip to New York. It’s the one place in America I’ve yet to visit and I’m looking forward to catching up with some of our Welsh stars on Broadway, like Daniel Evans and Sian Phillips.

Last month our music critic Christopher Rees also enjoyed a trip to America but he headed for Texas and Tennessee, the place that has inspired his music. Read his travelogue by clicking here