Johnian wins Best Young Artist at RPS Awards

Iestyn Davies, former Johnian Choral Scholar and Undergraduate, collected the award for Best Young Artist of 2009 at Royal Philharmonic Society Awards.

"Countertenor Iestyn Davies demonstrated that he is the outstanding artist of his generation. His expressiveness of tone, intensity of sound and musicianship were brought to bear in concert, and, of course, in opera, where his natural sense of drama stole many a show and, significantly, brought the spotlight back to the countertenor voice."

Iestyn dedicated a significant section of his acceptance speech to St John's College, telling the large audience of industry professionals how valuable his training at the College was.  He particularly mentioned George Guest, who had made Iestyn appreciate the artistic value of regular services; Iestyn has just returned from performing to thousands at the opera in New York, but said that he held his evensong performances at St John's more dearly.