Two talented young musicians from the Highlands and islands have been learning from one of the world’s most innovative and creative pianists.
Catriona Mackenzie, of Culbokie on the Black Isle, and Emilia De Geer, from Orkney, who are pupils at St Mary’s Music School in Edinburgh, gained the valuable experience while taking part in the school’s Piano Day event.
They were among six senior pupils given the opportunity to work with Joanna MacGregor on music by Beethoven, Chopin, Debussy, Rachmaninov and Ravel.
Ms MacGregor has performed as a solo pianist in more than 70 countries and is currently head of piano at the Royal Academy of Music in London and visiting musician at Oriel College, Oxford.
She said: “I always welcome the chance to work with talented young pianists, to assist them to further develop their musical skills, personality and technique.”
Ms MacGregor added that the interest and enthusiasm shown by everyone involved in the event made it a memorable and enjoyable day.
Catriona, who is a former pupil of Fortrose Academy, started playing piano at the age of nine and joined St Mary’s Music School, where she studies piano and violin, in 2014.
In 2015, she won the Edna Lovell medal at the Edinburgh Competition Festival and first place U18 in the New Piano Stars competition in Glasgow.
Catriona said: “It was an extraordinary opportunity to play piano with and learn from Joanna MacGregor.
“I felt I gained a lot from the experience and it was inspiring to be taught by someone who has gained international recognition for the quality of her performance.”
And Emilia said: “I thought the experience was extremely invigorating and helpful.
“Joanna challenged us all, but remained warmly encouraging throughout.”
