In 1994 at just 16 years of age, Londonderry born Ruth McGinley beat all other competitors to win the coveted piano final of the BBC Young Musician of the Year. She’d go on to win a scholarship to the London Academy of Music and tour the world as a solo concert pianist.
But behind the success, the young woman struggled with her mental health, experiencing periods of self-doubt and anxiety that led to depression and addiction.
In conversation with Steven Rainey, Ruth describes how she left behind the concert circuit and sought the help she needed for her mental health. She describes how only now, in her 40’s, does she feel happy with her music choices and her personal life.

Presenter Steven Rainey
Series Producer Gemma Cunningham
Editor Carole O’Kane