Young musicians tune up to take centre stage at Derby Concerts

Thousands of young musicians from across Derby and Derbyshire are tuning up to take centre stage for two local performances of a lifetime.

Around 3,500 pupils from primary and junior schools will join a professional orchestra for two concerts taking place at Derby Arena.

Called ‘Count Me In with the Orchestra’, the concert has been organised by the Derbyshire Music Education Hub, a collaboration of local and regional musical organisations.

The Hub is led by the Derby and Derbyshire Music Partnership – Derbyshire County Council and Derby City Council’s music service which aims to provide quality music-making opportunities to students.

The youngsters – from Years 3 to 6 – have all been taking part in a programme of learning in the classroom and will now put their skills to the test alongside some of the finest musicians in the UK.

Over the past few months, teachers from the partnership have been working with the children who are learning specially arranged pieces at school to perform alongside the pros on stage.

Designed to be accessible to all, the music has been written and adapted to match each pupil’s ability.

Pupils with special educational needs and disabilities are also taking part with scores that have been specifically adapted to achieve their full potential on their instrument so that everyone can join in.

Councillor Simon Mabbott, Derbyshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for SEND and Education, said: “Count Me In does exactly what it says – gives every pupil regardless of their ability the chance to shine on stage alongside professional musicians.

“Making music inclusive in this way allows all children to express their creativity and I’m sure it will be a wonderful event of collaboration and celebration. I hope it sows the seeds that may lead to some of our young people pursuing a musical career in the future.”

Audiences will be treated to an action-packed performance of exciting film music including Wallace & Gromit, Waltz of the Flowers and Pirates of the Caribbean.

They will also be encouraged to join in the singing – with everyone encouraged to belt out tunes including Touch the Sky from Brave and This is Me from The Greatest Showman.

The music has been prepared by Carrot Productions who are specialists in high-impact performances for young people. These will be performed by an outstanding full orchestra of professional musicians chosen for their ability to engage with audiences.

Councillor Paul Hezelgrave, Derby City Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Skills, said: “Seeing a new generation throw themselves into music and performance is fantastic. These youngsters are learning from experts and experiencing the joy of performing together, developing skills while firing up their creative minds.

“We know that creativity plays a significant role in children’s development, and so the inclusive nature of Count Me In is important. Music and its many benefits should be accessible to all young people, and the partnership is making that a reality.”

Two concerts will take place at Derby Arena on 18th June but they are fully booked.

For more information about the Derbyshire Music Hub, visit this link.