The Walker Trust aims to inspire and support young musicians to experience, learn and enjoy traditional folk music. We are delighted to publish the results of our recent performance awards held at the Wellington Folk Festival, Labour Weekend 2025.
The winner in the 17 – 25 years group was Caitlin Ryan who played the tunes, An Spáilpín Fánach / The Man from Newry, on the fiddle and impressed us with a stunning performance.
Runner up was Iris Broadley. Iris gave us a beautiful, heartfelt performance of the song ‘Waikato Farewell’, written by Helen Capes
Encouragement awards were presented to
· Becky Reid who performed ‘Let No Man Steal Your Thyme’ (guitar and vocal)
· Sammy Hart who played Bonny Breast Knot on melodeon
· Leigham Fitzpatrick who performed her own song 'The Dark' (guitar and vocal)
In the 11-16 age group, first place was awarded to Seren Davies, who won our hearts with an unaccompanied performance of Mairi’s Wedding.
Encouragement awards were presented to
Leo Hart, The Hardie Boys and Kelso and Kali.
