Mid and East Antrim 82-year-old retiree crowned Translink ‘Grand Pianist’ 2025 at Belfast finale

Denis Hession (82), winner of the 16 and Over Category, Translink’s Grand Pianist

A Carrickfergus man has been named one of Northern Ireland’s top amateur pianists after taking the top prize in the adult category of Translink’s prestigious Grand Pianist 2025 competition.

82-year-old Denis Hession, a retired engineer originally from Roscommon, claimed the adult title following an emotional performance of Carrickfergus on a baby grand piano at Belfast’s Grand Central Station.

Describing his victory as “a dream come true”, Denis said:

“I’m delighted to have won. It has made my year.”

Denis learned piano from his father before attending St Malachy’s College, where he also studied the church organ. A lifelong lover of traditional Irish music, his winning performance captivated judges and spectators alike during the live finale, which transformed the bustling transport hub into a concert venue for one night.

The competition, which attracted over 70 entrants from across Northern Ireland, also saw Portadown schoolboy Jacob Purdy (8) crowned winner of the Under 16 category.

Denis Hession (82), winner of the 16 and Over Category, Translink’s Grand Pianist; Jacob Purdy (8), winner of the Under 16 Category.

Jacob, who has been playing piano for just two years under the guidance of his teacher Holly Marshall, said:

“I can’t believe I’m a winner of Translink’s Grand Pianist 2025 competition.”

He added that he enjoys playing dramatic and expressive pieces that challenge him and help him grow as a musician. His best friend, Levi Thompson, was “very highly commended” in the same category.

Among other finalists, Belfast music student Celine Egan (26) was “highly commended” in the adult section.

The Grand Final followed a regional roadshow in October, which brought a concert piano to four transport hubs – Belfast Lanyon Place, Newry Bus Station, the North-West Transport Hub in Derry-Londonderry, and Bangor Train Station.

Fourteen finalists, aged from seven to 82, were chosen to perform three-minute pieces before a panel of judges and an audience of invited guests, passengers, and families.

The world’s only professional one-handed concert pianist, Nicholas McCarthy, joined the judging panel as special guest, alongside Linda Neilan from Translink and Matthew Owens, Music Director of the Ulster Consort and Artistic Director at Gordonstoun School.

Crowds gathered and enjoyed the playing at Belfast Grand Central Station

Nicholas McCarthy opened the evening with a dazzling solo performance, setting the tone for what head judge Matthew Owens described as “an evening of exceptional talent and creativity.”

Owens said:

“Northern Ireland is home to exceptional musical talent; it’s been wonderful to be part of this competition, which has given people the opportunity to showcase their creativity, passion for the piano, and remarkable skill.”

Nicholas McCarthy added:

“It’s been an absolute joy to return to Belfast and see the passion, creativity and individuality each pianist brought to their performance. What’s so special about this competition is how it celebrates connection through music — it’s not just about technique, but about communicating something real. The finalists truly captured that spirit tonight.”

Translink Group Chief Executive Chris Conway praised all finalists and said the competition has become an important way of connecting communities through shared moments of joy.

“Our award-winning Grand Pianist competition clearly created memorable moments of connection for people and shows how our rail and bus stations are at the heart of local communities,” he said.

L-R: Denis Hession (82), winner of the 16 and Over Category, Translink’s Grand Pianist; Guest Judge Nicholas McCarthy; Jacob Purdy (8), winner of the Under 16 Category; Head Judge Matthew Owens; Translink Judge Linda Neilan.

“The excellent in-station performances sparked surprise and delight from many passengers passing through. Now in its second year, the Final at Belfast Grand Central Station always promised to be a spectacular event – and today the finalists did not disappoint.”

The Grand Pianist competition, now in its second year, continues to highlight the extraordinary depth of musical talent across Northern Ireland – from Carrickfergus to Coleraine and beyond – bringing music, community and travel together in perfect harmony.