PLAYING songs by two of the artists who inspired him helped a teenage student to success in a prestigious music awards event.
Josh Davey (17), a guitarist who is studying Creative Practice at Highlands College, was crowned as winner of the 2026 Jersey Contemporary Musician competition after the final held at Haute Vallée School.
For his final set, Josh chose songs from two of his favourite artists: Something Human and Reapers by English band Muse, plus Sounds Like Balloons by Scottish rockers Biffy Clyro.
The win came nine years after Josh had first performed live, although it was the first time he had performed as a solo artist.
Also taking part in the final after winning their respective categories were: drummer Tilly Jablonski, a year 7 student at Jersey College for Girls; keyboard player Alexander Turpin (year 12, Victoria College); and singer Annabelle Brown (year 9, Les Quennevais School).
The event also included a performance by 2025 winner Matt Jackson and was adjudicated by Stuart Whatmore from the Tri-Borough Music Hub in London.
A spokesperson for organising body the Jersey Music Service said the event, first held in 2025, “continues to provide a vibrant platform for young performers to develop their skills, gain valuable live experience, and celebrate contemporary music-making across the Island.”
