Music Junction Video
July 22, 2011
LCO and Barnardo’s Music Junction
Music Junction is a groundbreaking programme, developed in partnership by the London Chamber Orchestra (LCO) and Barnardo’s (the national children’s charity) which builds on LCO’s past education work. Bringing together young people from different backgrounds, the projects involve Barnardo’s children’s services, Academy schools, Local Music Authorities and Independent Schools, throughout London and the South East, using the power of music to transform lives with LCO as the catalyst.
A lovely atmosphere and learning experience for the young people … which changed a lot of the preconceptions of our young people.” – Barnardoʼs High Close School teacher
'Inside the Orchestra'
In 2010-11, LCO and Barnardo’s launched the first year of the project, focusing on two projects, in Kent (working with Barnardo’s Meadows School and Tonbridge Grammar School) and Berkshire (working with Barnardo’s High Close School and Bradfield College).
“It was amazing to watch our students experience both the sound and sensation of being within the orchestra, an experience that few will ever encounter.” – Barnardo’s High Close School Teacher
In Music Junction’s first year, the children enjoyed trips to LCO’s Open Rehearsals for Schools and ‘Inside the Orchestra’ workshops, where they were introduced to the instruments of the orchestra and sat next to members of the orchestra as they played. These workshops were not only novel and exciting for the children but encouraged them to engage with the musicians and conductor.
“I was at the back with the double basses and drum. I thought it was fun and I liked feeling the vibrations through my body. It was different and interesting.” – Pupil aged 14, Barnardo’s High Close School
Workshops
In addition to working with LCO musicians, the children took part in workshops led by Tim Steiner, who worked with them to develop new pieces inspired by LCO’s repertoire. The children from the different schools participated in these together and were encouraged to integrate. They worked together to produce new compositions, which they then showcased at performances locally and in London.
“I enjoyed playing because I knew my dad was watching me, and he was proud of me.” – Pupil, Barnardo’s High Close School
Schoolchildren from Kent showcased their work at performances at Tonbridge Grammar School (17 November 2010) and at Cadogan Hall (LCO’s season concert, 19 November 2010)
Schoolchildren from Berkshire had their work showcased at Bradfield College (1 March 2011) and at Cadogan Hall (LCO’s season concert, 5 March 2011)