Magdalene Student Wins Cambridge’s Take it to the Bridge Competition

Magdalene College is delighted to celebrate the success of Iona Luke (English, 2022), who has been named the winner of Cambridge’s Take it to the Bridge popular music competition. The competition, established by the Centre for Music Performance in 2023, has quickly become a key platform for emerging musicians at the University.

Performing with band members James Barrett (2021), Philip Evans, Hamish Hyland (2023), Kenzie Robertson, and Alex Williams, Iona captivated both the audience and a panel of industry judges at the final, held at the Cambridge Junction. The panel, featuring BBC Radio 1 Music Editor Matt Fincham, Anton Browne (The BRIT School), Rebecca May (Cambridge 105), and Damien Yare (Warner Music Group), praised her commanding stage presence and vocal artistry.

As the competition winner, Iona will receive studio time to record two songs, professional industry guidance, and a photoshoot. Her music, inspired by artists including Florence & The Machine, Patti Smith, and Stevie Nicks, blends pop, rock, and folk influences to create a distinctive and compelling sound.

On hearing of her success, Master of Magdalene Sir Christopher Greenwood said:

"I am delighted by the success of Iona and her band in this competition and offer warmest congratulations to her and to all the members of the band."

Magdalene College congratulates Iona on this fantastic achievement and looks forward to seeing where her musical career takes her next.