Naomi Simon crowned BBC Young Chorister of the Year

Talented 16-year-old Naomi Simon, who used to attend The Minster School in York, soared to glory in Sunday afternoon’s final (December 11) as the stand-out competitor from the shortlist of six talented choristers.

Naomi joined as a boarder at Rugby in 2020 on a music scholarship from the York school and has been coached by head of vocal studies, Matthew Sandy, since she arrived.

On the victory, Naomi said she was happy to have reached the semi-finals last year, but knew she had more to give.

She said: “I felt I hadn’t shown all I could do. I changed my piece to ‘Mary did you know’ quite late. I really connected with this on an emotional level and it shows there can be different sounds in choral music.

“I was overjoyed just to have the chance to perform my pieces to an audience. That was almost enough, but to win was completely surreal. The support I received from my school, my family and friends was immense – everyone was there and played a massive part in my success.”

Naomi Simon lifting the winners trophy (Image: Tricia Yourkevich)

Director of music, Richard Tanner, Matthew and Naomi’s housemistress, Debbie Horner, all travelled to support Naomi in the semi-final filming in Manchester during the October half term.

Richard said: “Naomi is not only a wonderful team player through her contribution to our choirs at Rugby School, but also a stylish solo singer. She’s a natural performer who excels in her ability to adapt to a range of genres in her own unique way.”

Matthew added that Naomi is one of the most versatile singers he has coached and he couldn’t be more proud of her.

He said: “Far from being put off by missing out on the finals last year, Naomi was absolutely determined to have another shot and go for the trophy. We are all very proud of her resilience and dedication – she has an amazing talent.”

Meanwhile, Naomi’s mother, Frances Simon, said her family are "delighted" by the support received from Rugby School in the lead-up, during and post activities of the competition.

Aled Jones presented the competition which was judged by Katherine Jenkins, Howard Goodall and David Grant.

Naomi will now have the opportunity to take part in a range of radio and television programmes during the year for the BBC, sharing her talent with the nation and working with top musicians. She is recording with the BBC Philharmonic on Wednesday.

The full competition, including Naomi’s performance, will be available on the Songs of Praise website and it will be broadcast on BBC Radio 2 at 8pm today (Sunday).