FELIXSTOWE: Four music-loving youngsters from the same family found the key to success in their recent exams – all coming through with top marks.

Luke Avery, 18, passed with distinction in grade eight at piano, while his sister Harriet, 16, passed with merit at grade six, brother Ben, 14, gained a distinction at grade four theory and brother Alex, 13, passed grade three theory with merit and piano with distinction.

The quartet, who live with mum and dad, Hazel and Tim, in Goyfield Avenue, Felixstowe, have been thrilled with their results – especially as they have all had a busy year with academic exams at Deben High School.

“It’s been a very busy year for them with learning the music, practising their pieces and keeping up with all their schoolwork and exams,” said Mrs Avery.

“Luke has worked incredibly hard at his music. He started when he was eight years old and to reach grade eight is a fantastic achievement.

“I think he feels he has taken it as far as he can go, but he will always have that ability to play the piano and I am sure he will use it and enjoy it throughout his life. It’s just a lovely instrument to be able to play.

“They have all got quite a lot out of learning to play and it is fun for them to do.”

Harriet, Ben and Alex will be continuing their tuition and are now working towards the next grades.

“We do have some very nervous times just before the music exams – you only get one shot at it and they just want to get it absolutely right,” said Mrs Avery.

The foursome are students of The Linden School of Music and took the Associated Board of The Royal Schools of Music examinations.

Geraldine Patey, of the music school, said: “I feel very honoured to teach all my students, whether they take exams or not.

“My youngest are six years and my eldest are in their 70s.

“I think it’s important, too, to recognise the adult students who take their music exams – they are very brave going and sitting with all those young people, under conditions which must take them back a few years!”

n Have you or a member of your family hit the high notes in music? Write to Your Letters, The Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN or send us an e-mail to eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk