20^th November 2018 at Holy Cross, North Belfast. The Flax Trust Music Awards were established to create a platform for exceptionally talented young musicians on the Island of Ireland. The bursaries being awarded total £12,000 (including an Audience Vote Award) which will go towards musical development and education. The ‘heats’ for a place in the Grand Final were held in the Harty Room, Queens University, Belfast. Judges throughout were Richard Yarr, Colin Stark, Iona Petcu-Colan and Giselle Allen. Master of Ceremonies was Richard Wigley. Finalists were accompanied by the Ulster Orchestra. Conductor David Brophy. The evening also featured the Flax Vocal Ensemble.

Winner of the Flax Trust Music Award Kevin Jannson (piano) with finalists Miriam Kiczor (flute) and Eva Richards (cello)