Lee Family Shield and Bursary Award 2023

Well done to Ruby McConkey and Joseph Rainey, who recently became the second set of pupils to be awarded the Lee Family Shield and Bursary Award.

The Award is named after Grosvenor’s first ever Head of Music, the late Ronnie Lee OBE., whose daughters, Janet Johnston and Christine Lee, have generously agreed to present an annual music bursary to assist worthy music students with their studies at a high level, whilst representing Grosvenor Grammar School.

Mr Lee’s distinguished career and expertise as a choral director enabled the school choir to win the prestigious BBC Sainsbury’s Youth Choir of the Year and the 22nd Recontres Chorales International De Montreux (Switzerland). Today, the Grosvenor Carol Service at St. Anne’s Cathedral is a treasured musical tradition, thanks to his inspiration.   

As regards this year’s worthy recipients, choralist Joseph, Year 13, was selected onto the National Youth Training Choir during the summer. In addition, he has attained Grade 7 in Singing, Grade 6 in Piano and is a member of Grosvenor’s esteemed Chamber Choir. Year 14 pupil Ruby, meanwhile, who plays the cello, is a member of the City of Belfast Youth Orchestra (CBYO), which last year played at the Royal Albert Hall, and, in the summer, embarked on a tour of France. In addition, she attained her Cello Grade 8 earlier in the year and is a member of the Ulster Youth Orchestra as well as Grosvenor’s Orchestra, String Ensemble, String Quartet and Senior Choir.

The beautiful shield that accompanies this fitting Award is an apt tribute to all members of the talented Lee family. The Music Department wishes to extend its sincere appreciation for their generosity, inspiration, and support to the current musicians at Grosvenor.  

Joseph Rainey and Ruby McConkey - recipients of the Lee Family Shield 2023/24.