A Historic Win for Hatcham at the Haberdashers’ Musician of the Year Competition
We are absolutely delighted to celebrate the success of Year 13 student Manny, who has been crowned Haberdashers’ Musician of the Year 2025—the first-ever winner from Haberdashers' Hatcham College!
This prestigious annual competition brings together talented musicians from across all Haberdashers’ schools in the UK, providing a platform to showcase exceptional musical ability. Manny, who is studying A Level Music, wowed the judges with his breathtaking solo piano performance of Rachmaninoff’s Moment Musicaux Op. 16 No. 3 in B minor, demonstrating remarkable technical skill, musicality, and passion.
Having joined Hatcham in the Sixth Form from Deptford Green, Manny has made a huge impact in our music department. Specialising in Romantic-style piano repertoire, he is also a talented composer and has recently secured a place at Trinity Laban Conservatoire to further his studies. Reflecting on his win, Manny shared:
I am not sure how to describe the way I felt when the judge announced me as the winner—it still feels surreal. I am so thankful for the people who have believed in me and supported me throughout my musical journey: my piano teacher, Mr Human; my music teachers, Mr Taing and Dr Van; and other teachers like Ms Kennedy, who has encouraged me since the beginning of Year 12. I’m also grateful to my family and friends. It was an honour to be the first Hatcham winner.
Manny’s achievement is a testament to his dedication and the strength of Hatcham’s music department, which continues to nurture outstanding talent. Music is at the heart of Hatcham, with a rich curriculum and a wealth of extracurricular opportunities. We offer BTEC and GCSE Music at Key Stage 4, as well as A Level and RSL Music at Key Stage 5, ensuring students have access to a broad and high-quality music education. Our vibrant programme includes orchestras, choirs, jazz bands, and ensembles, supported by over 30 peripatetic staff delivering more than 400 music lessons each week.
We are incredibly proud of Manny and all our talented musicians who took part in this year’s competition. We look forward to celebrating more musical excellence at our upcoming Spring Concert and our summer production of Bugsy Malone—stay tuned for more details!
