A young Aberdeen musician has become the first recipient of a Remembrance Award in recognition of a long-standing commitment to an Armistice Day Recital honouring North-east veterans.
Fifteen-year-old Elias Yanik was presented with the inaugural award, established by The Royal Corps of Transport (RCT), at a special ceremony at International School Aberdeen’s (ISA) Armistice Day Recital held this week in the school’s Queen Elizabeth Theatre.
Elias, who plays the trumpet in the ISA Jazz Band, accepted the award from the RCT, which established the accolade to honour young people who dedicate their time and remarkable talent to the commemorative event each year.
Now in its 16th year, the Armistice Day Recital, first established by Kent Walter, is held in collaboration with the British Legion (Aberdeen, Banff and Kincardine area branches), and is a cherished tradition on the ISA calendar, attended by around 20 veterans. The poignant ceremony is organised to honour retired servicemen from various British Legion branches across the North East, who took part in traditional observances including the Presentation of Arms, The Last Post, and a two-minute silence to honour fallen soldiers.
This year’s theme of “Freedom” was brought to life by the ISA Jazz Band, Jazz Singers, and Elementary School Choir, with performances that reflected the universal longing for peace, harmony, and the right to live freely as individuals.
Reflecting on the recital, Michelle Brown, one of ISA’s music teachers and this year’s event organiser, said: “Our talented musical students put such passion and emotion into this recital every year, and this year was no exception.
“Through music and song, they expressed the powerful message of freedom, which resonates deeply with the veterans and our community.
“We are incredibly proud to honour Elias as the first recipient of the Remembrance Award, which symbolises the dedication of ISA students in honouring our veterans as well as commemorating the lives of those lost in battle.”
Veteran involvement has been central since the event inception. Commenting on the Armistice Day Recital, RCT Vice Chair Jim Gray, said, “This was an excellent recital once again. Huge well done to all the students who took part and a special mention to Elias, a deserved recipient of our very first Remembrance Award, for his time and commitment to this very special event.”
For more on ISA, visit www.isa.aberdeen.sch.uk