Competition adjudicators 2025
James Cunningham
James is an experienced educator and performer. As a former music instructor in various Local Authorities, and current Arts & Learning Manager at Renfrewshire Council, James is a passionate advocate on the value of music education in developing our young people.
James is a former Chairperson of Heads of Instrumental teaching Scotland (HITS) and is regularly invited to present and adjudicate at events across the UK.
James is very much an active musician, primarily as a tuba player, regularly performing with orchestras and ensembles throughout Scotland.
Siobhan McAuley
Siobhan McAuley is a versatile Scottish musician, performer, and vocal coach with an accomplished career across opera, musical theatre, and traditional music. A former member of the Glasgow Youth Choir under Dr. Agnes Hoey OBE, she made her Scottish Opera debut at thirteen, performing in The Marriage of Figaro and La Bohème.
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After studying at the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama, Siobhan performed with Glyndebourne Opera and as a soloist with the Scots Opera Project. She is also a World Champion whistle player, having appeared with The Pogues, Capercaillie, and Phil Cunningham, and featured in Outlander and Blood of My Blood.
​Her extensive coaching credits include Bill Kenwright’s touring musicals, the BBC’s Any Dream Will Do, and London’s West End production of The Lion King. Siobhan now serves as Head of Instrumental Music for Clackmannanshire Council, championing music education across Scotland.