Hi! My name is Torin and I am part of the National Open Youth Orchestra, the World’s first disabled led youth orchestra. This August I had the exciting opportunity to do a day’s work experience with Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra during the Proms in the Park.

My mentor for the day was Jess Craig and my day started with a tour of the BSO offices at Poole Lighthouse. After meeting everyone, I got stuck in with my first task which was to repair some damaged  sheet music. It felt great to be surrounded by music and I was surprised how much there was. I wondered what exciting places these scores had been played at!

Soon it was time to head over to Meyrick Park to help to get ready for the Relaxed Family Afternoon later that day. I was very excited as Jess showed me around backstage which was very inspiring, especially as the BSO Resound Ensemble turned up to rehearse so I managed to have a chat with James Rose, the conductor, and Charlotte Bott who plays LinnStrument in Resound.

The staff were so nice and welcoming to me. I helped Chris and Jess clear up any litter around the park to make sure everything looked fantastic ready for later. It was a bit tricky as the wind kept on blowing the rubbish out of our bags! The BBC South Today TV crew had arrived and I helped make sure no-one bumped into the microphone during their filming, a very important task!

Later the public arrived and the performance started. Before settling down to watch the show, my last job was a chance to take some photographs of the crowd and musicians.

The show was better than I could have hoped and it was lovely to have been a part of all this, even if it was just for one day

Our work experience placements are tailored to provide as much relevant experience as possible for students interested in arts management or administration.

For more information about work experience with the BSO, please click here