Bournemouth’s National Open Youth Orchestra (NOYO) ensemble is open to disabled and non-disabled musicians aged 11-25 and gives young people who might not have had the opportunity to perform in public before the chance to celebrate their musical achievements.
During the concert on 14 June individual players will introduce one of the pieces played by the ensemble. French horn player, Torin, introduces a piece called Warmth by Peter Gregson. Torin says he’s “excited to introduce the piece” which is inspired by a photo Peter Gregson took of glimmers of water outside.
“We also have some musicians who will be performing solos they’ve chosen and are currently working on at home or during lessons. This is a great opportunity for them to gain confidence, showcase their talent, and share different types of music they love playing” says Torin.
As well as being a talented musical ensemble, NOYO also fosters a strong sense of community. Torin says “NOYO gives me a lot of social connection and I’ve made friends, I see them outside of orchestras now.”
BSO Participate Senior Programme Manager Jess Kirby said, “It’s a lovely group, and I think because people have been in it for years they’ve had the time to get to know each other really well.”
Torin has been co-producing this event as part of his Silver Arts Award with the BSO, and he says “What’s important about orchestras is bonding with people. If you bond with your peers, you work better together. You get to know what they are like, what their strengths and weaknesses are, and you can help them.”
The concert is also an opportunity for audiences to hear instruments played that they might not have heard before, such as the Clarion or the Linnstrument. Torin adds, “It’s nice for teachers and students to come and see what we do, be inspired and maybe take those ideas back into schools.”
We can’t wait to see you at the performance on Saturday 14 June at The Spire, Poole. Tickets are free and available to book here.