Top honour for school of music

Alexander and Nina Levtov became only the second recipients of the Ross Memorial Cup for their services to Bognor.

The impressive trophy was presented to the pair by town mayor, Cllr John Hayward, at his packed civic reception at the Royal Norfolk Hotel.

Mr Levtov said they were proud to be presented with the cup. 'Receiving it is an honour for me and Nina personally, and we regard it as the highest form of approval of the Regis School of Music's role in our town,' he told the scores of guests.

'It is a privilege to live in a free country and there is no greater satisfaction for us, than the knowledge that our contribution is needed and appreciated.'

He added later: 'We are happy with the help the cup gives to the school's reputation rather than to us personally.'

Mrs Levtov remarked: 'We were surprised to receive the cup. We don't think we are doing anything special, just what is needed in the town.'

The trophy is the first local formal recognition the couple have received for their hard work which has catapaulted Bognor to a leading role in the world of classical music with a good reputation.

Their decision to set up the Regis School of Music in September 1996 in a disused church in Sudley Road has paid handsome dividends for Bognor.

The centre hosts regular concerts by performers of international repute to audiences of about 80 people as well as hosting two ensembles, the West Sussex Guitar Club and groups such as Bognor Regis Concert Band.

In addition, the Royal School of Music and the London College of Music examination boards have recognised the school for their students to join the Trinity and Guildhall exam boards.

The school has 70 younger students on instruments such as flute, violin, guitar and piano as well as six mature students.

Mr and Mrs Levtov's expertise was reflected in the performance at the mayor's reception by one of their first students, international guitarist Amanda Cook.

Homegrown star Amanda gave a preview of the recital she will be giving at the world-famous Wigmore Hall in London on March 17. A coach has been hired from the Regis School of Music to take her supporters to the venue.

The work of Mr Levtov (56) and Mrs Levtov (54), of Lyon Street, is backed by the support of more than 200 Friends of the school. Mr Levtov stated: 'Our work depends very much on the support we get from everyone.'