Sam Kuipers has $700 to put towards his studies after winning an Ashburton Musical Club scholarship at the weekend.

The 18-year-old performed at the club’s last concert for the year on Saturday, where he was announced as the scholarship winner.

“I’m very thankful to the musical club for giving me the opportunity to perform for them over the years,” said Sam, who has been one of the artists entertaining audiences at the club over the last five years.

At Saturday’s concert he challenged himself by playing Grieg’s four-movement Piano Sonata Op. 7.

“It’s one of my favourite pieces I have ever played,” Sam said.

He is in Year 13 at Ashburton College, and next year he is off to the University of Canterbury to study biology.

He is aiming to be a science teacher, with music as a secondary career, perhaps in the domain of school or private tuition.

Pictured above is Sam, seated at the paino, accompanied by fellow musical club performers.

© The Ashburton Guardian - 19 October 2020