Shauni McGregor was an active and inspiring musician whose enthusiasm and passion for music-making in the community contributed to the Chipping Norton Festival become one of the nation’s most admired. Her dedication enabled so many people to participate in music and develop their skills, and her energy as festival committee member and chair, ensured these experiences were widely available and accessible. Shauni died of brain cancer in early 2021 and bequeathed a legacy fund to support the festival in ensuring her good work continues. The committee has pledged to use this gift to enable more people to develop their music in ways that she encouraged through her teaching, active participation and passionate leadership.

The 2023 festival launched the Young Musician’s Recital class, offering a great opportunity for musicians age 18 and under to perform a contrasting short programme of their own choice to a live audience. All classes of entry will be permitted, and will emphasise the values and standards that she upheld for her pupils. Also a new award, the SHAUNI MCGREGOR FESTIVAL CUP will be presented to the most promising musician in the Festival. A significant bursary of £500 will be attached for the recipient to use in pursuit of musical study, and the chance to return the following year to report on progress and perform again.