A TEENAGE pianist is set to follow in the footsteps of Sir Elton John, after dazzling teachers at the Royal Academy of Music.

Thirsk School and Sixth Form College pupil David Rose is one of two students who have been awarded a scholarship to study at the academy this year, which trains nearly 700 students from more than 50 countries in 20 musical disciplines.

The 18-year-old, who has been playing piano for 11 years, said he had been astonished to have been selected from auditionees from across the world for the four-year scholarship.

Places on its courses are competitive due to its reputation and the opportunities it offers to work with renowned composers such as Michael Nyman and Stephen Sondheim.

David said he began to view music as a potential career when he became interested in composition aged 11.

David, who has performed in the school's theatrical productions as well as contributing to the its musical performances and ensembles, said: "I still can’t believe it; I never thought I would get a place, let alone a scholarship.

"I have had a lot of support from the school’s music department to achieve this.

"I am very excited at this opportunity to work with world-class musicians, and am also looking forward to living and studying in central London."