“Last weekend, I had the amazing opportunity to play with the National Children’s Orchestra as part of their project orchestra — and it was an experience I’ll never forget! I played the violin alongside lots of other talented young musicians from all over the country.

We started the day with a fun and energetic body percussion warm-up themed around the environment — with a catchy rhythm using the words: “Rethink, Reduce, Recycle, Repair, and Reuse!” It really helped us wake up, get moving, and feel connected as a group before we started playing.

Our concert programme was packed with exciting music. We began with the Thunder and Lightning Polka by Johann Strauss — it was fast, dramatic, and so much fun to play! Then came the iconic Star Wars Theme by John Williams, which gave me goosebumps when the brass section came in. One of the most special moments was performing Windrush: Home Sweet Home, a beautiful and powerful piece written especially for the NCO by composer Ryan Linham, who actually led us in the performance! To end the concert on a high, we played I Will Survive by Gloria Gaynor — the whole audience was clapping along, and it felt like a big celebration.

Being part of such an amazing orchestra and making music together with so many new friends was incredible. I learned so much, had loads of fun, and can’t wait to do it again!”

Katherine, Lower III