A local girl has won her way through to the final of the Open Mic UK contest for young singers and performers.

Ella Walker, a year 11 student at Gumley House in Isleworth, will perform in the O2 Arena on January 19th.

Her mum, Linda, who works in Chiswick said; “We’re very proud. She is the only contestant from the Borough of Hounslow to get through.”

Ella has been singing classically for 5 years but about two years ago realised that she was more interested in writing her own material and performing in her own style. Since then she’s taught herself to play guitar which has helped her song writing progress, and she’s even been playing local gigs.

For the semi-final last weekend, Ella sang her own song , ‘Birds of a Feather’ mixed with ‘Dog Days’ by Florence and the Machine.

The Open Mic UK competition is for young singer/songwriters, rappers and musicians. The winning act takes home a £5,000 prize.

Previous winner Birdy, has had a number one record in Europe and Australia and signed a deal with Warner music. One of her hit singles includes her version of the Bon Iver song ‘Skinny Love’.

Last year's under 18's winner, Hatty Keane has also had huge success after being signed to BGM. Since being crowned the overall runner up of the competition last year, Hatty has performed live sets alongside Ed Sheeran, Tinchy Stryder, Zane Lowe, Pitbull and Angel. Her new single No One Loves You, was released on October 22.

November 23, 2012