Moving from Auckland four years ago, Pope had an interest in guitar from younger days watching his grandfather, but came to Boston more interested in heavy metal and other modern forms, and he couldn't read music, the tutor said.
But there was a unique talent and Biston said: "I've just steered him in a few different directions. He's not just a good soloist, he's a good all-round musician.""
Pope, who was on Sunday at work in a supermarket, is also in a jazz group at the school, and plays rock and pop, as well as classical.
Up against three pianists, a flautist and an organist, he claimed $2000 in prizes, including $500 as top instrumentalist, repeating his success of 2018 when he was runner-up overall to pianist and fellow Taradale High pupil Ethan Young.
Pianists were again the toughest of opposition on Friday. Second place went to Bede Powell, of St John's College, Hastings, and third to Oliver Clayton, of Lindisfarne College, also in Hastings.
Registered Music Teachers Hawke's Bay branch chairperson Mary McHattie was particularly impressed with the winning performance, which she believes was a performance of rare classical quality for a teenager, and one who had started learning just 5 years ago.
"He was the consummate performer, he owned the stage and it was absolutely amazing. He plays the guitar in every way possible way," she said.
The final was held at two venues, using first the organ at Cathedral before the remaining performances at the MTG.
The competition is for music students aged 15-21 years, and at least two of the six finalists are considered likely to be able to enter the competition again in 2020.
