David Smith (18), is one of five young people who will head to Cardiff this weekend for the final of the BBC Young Musician of the Year 2008.

David, who attended Balwearie High School in Kirkcaldy and then St Mary's Music School in Edinburgh, entered the competition after being inspired to play the flute just four years ago.

David heard that he had got through to the grand final on Monday.
He said: "When I heard my name being called out I was absolutely overwhelmed and shocked. I was totally gobsmacked and still am."

This year the competition reaches its 30th anniversary, making the event even more special than normal.

On Saturday, May 10, David will have the rare opportunity to play his chosen concerto with the BBC National Orchestra of Wales, in front of the elite judging panel and a live audience.

Then on Sunday, the finalists will play a piece that is particularly special to them, and the judges will make their decision.

"I have worked really hard for the final," David continued. "I try not to do any more work than I usually would because I find over-working holds me back and doesn't allow me to progress as quickly.

"In the end though, I think I have done a little more just because it's so much fun."

David is up against a guitarist, trombonist, pianist and percussionist in the final five, and will battle it out with the other contestants to scoop the coveted BBC Young Musician of the Year title, as well as an opportunity to give a recital at Wigmore Hall.

Having made the grand final, David has already been awarded £2000, which he has said will be invested in his career.

The grand final of the BBC Young Musician of the Year 2008 will be shown on BBC Two this Sunday, May 11 from 6 p.m.

• To read the full story pick up your copy of the Fife Free Press first thing Thursday morning.