During May and June seven of our musicians were given the chance to take part in the LSO Connect Project with the Walthamstow Youth Orchestra. The musicians met for rehearsals after school to practise pieces from Bizet’s Carmen and Elgar’s Enigma Variations. They were joined at each rehearsal by professional musicians from the LSO, who played alongside them, ran sectionals and offered advice. The final rehearsal was held jointly with the Youth Orchestra, where our musicians were given the opportunity to experience playing in a full orchestra. The final concert featured the pieces the combined groups had worked on, pieces played by the Youth Orchestra and solos played by members of the LSO. It was a fantastic opportunity for them all and sounded amazing. Here, two of our senior students give their account of their experiences with this worthwhile project.
“It was an amazing experience to take part in and really helped build my confidence in playing with such a large orchestra. The LSO players were extremely talented and helped give us advice and guidance on how to play our pieces better. They set an example for what all of us aspire to play like. We learnt six very well- known pieces and having to learn the pieces so quickly really helped with my sight-reading. I met new people while there and it was exciting to play with other people around the same grade as me. I learnt so much every rehearsal and the conductor played a big part in helping us perform well on the actual night. It was an enthralling experience that I would love to be a part of again.”
By Alexa, 9K
“I’m a member of the youth orchestra and have taken part in many special events like these. This was one of my favourites because I had Normanhurst to join this journey with me and the youth orchestra. As we had our rehearsal the LSO players joined us for the lovely support we needed and as we combined with the other schools it sounded like a professional orchestra. I enjoyed the concert because the youth orchestra played two pieces, one that was very familiar and the other piece was unexpected. Overall I had a wonderful time and I hope we get to do this again.”
By Imogen, 10B
Waltham Forest Music Service run a wide range of ensembles and musical opportunities for all musicians from beginner to Grade 8; check the website to see what fantastic things are on offer.