A pianist from St Albans was the youngest ever contestant to win a Grand Prix at international classical music competition Long-Thibaud-Crespin.

Julian Trevelyan was awarded the top Grand Prix at this year’s competition, staged in Paris between October 23 and October 27.

The competition, for pianists, violinists and singers, has been held in France since 1943.

Following his performance of Bartok’s third piano concerto at Theatre des Champs Elysees, Julian was one of only five to reach the final stage of the competition, the only British contestant to achieve that in 45 years and the youngest ever contestant to win a Grand Prix.

Julian was also awarded the Prince Rainer of Monaco Concerto Prize for his performance.

He said: “The competition was a very intense and wonderful experience.

“I am honoured to be the top prize winner and particularly delighted to be awarded the Prince Rainer of Monaco Concerto Prize for my performance of the third piano concerto by Bartok.

“I consider his concertos to be among the most inventive and fascinating of all piano concertos.

“The audience gave unstinting support and encouragement throughout and I gave them the heart of my music.”

Julian is home-educated and currently studies geology through the Open University.

He has a graduate qualification in the piano and also plays the violin and sings as a tenor with Abbey Singers.

He became involved in the competition at the suggestion of a jury member at another competition earlier this year.