Young people from theatre programme visit Abbey Road Studios
Twelve young people from B:Music’s ‘B:and Together’ programme experienced the trip of a lifetime to abbey road studios and the Royal Albert Hall
The dozen young musicians aged 11 to 19 spent a day at two of the most iconic music-making spaces in the UK, thanks to the Birmingham-based music charity.
B:Music, the Birmingham-based music charity responsible for Town Hall and Symphony Hall, has for many years provided opportunities where everybody is invited to make music with the organisation.
It offers a range of performance opportunities, workshops, and creative projects throughout the year for everyone from amateur enthusiasts through to established touring artists.
On Friday 31 May, 12 young musicians who are members of B:Music’s B:and Together ensembles were given an unforgettable opportunity to learn more about music-making and performance when they were taken to London to visit Abbey Road Studios and the Royal Albert Hall.
The young people all take part in fortnightly Saturday workshops at Symphony Hall, where they learn Gospel and Jazz music from the best industry professionals in Birmingham, in what is a great opportunity for them to make music and meet new friends.
Some of the young musicians- who sing and play saxophone, clarinet, drums, flute, trumpet, and guitar- were in the middle of GCSE and A-Level examinations, so the trip offered some much-needed respite and inspiration.
Rachel Cranny, head of development and impact at B:Music said, “We have been thrilled to work with the brilliant teams at Abbey Road Studios and the Royal Albert Hall to offer this incredible opportunity to members of our B:and Together ensembles.
“Places for the trip were limited so individuals were selected via a random prize draw which was open to all B:and Together participants from the Spring term.
“Several of the group had never been to London before and had never used the Tube, so it was wonderful to be able to give them these experiences as part of our brilliant partnership with Abbey Road Studios.”
Marianne de Wildt, one of the B:and Together ensemble members who participated in the day said: “This trip was not only educational, allowing us to learn about the world of professional music and recording, but also incredibly enjoyable.
“I learned about the amazing bands and groups who have recorded at Abbey Road Studios, and how they have recorded the music for some of the most iconic films in history there.
“As I've always been interested in the music that film composers like John Williams can create, seeing the room where the magic is made was amazing!
“The Royal Albert Hall was also incredible. I especially loved learning about the history of the Hall and how it became the well-established, world-famous venue it is today.
“I am eternally grateful to everyone at B:Music for providing this wonderful opportunity. I have only been involved with B:Music for a year, but the opportunities I have been able to experience through ensemble playing, performance, and exploring jazz music have been absolutely unforgettable.”
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