The National Children’s Orchestra (NCO) will be featured every day on Classic FM this week, part of ‘Young Brilliance Week’ that coincides with the launch of a new NCO website as well as the orchestra’s open auditions for 2017. Recordings, interviews with alumni conducted by current members, and a concert broadcast on Wednesday evening are all part of the programme.
‘We are thrilled that our friends at Classic FM have recognised the absolutely vital role the NCO plays in nurturing the nation’s best young orchestral musicians,’ said NCO chair Peter Stark. ‘The significant coverage during this week will provide a real boost for our work and the brilliance of our players and tutors, and we look forward to NCO orchestras moving centre stage with thousands of new fans who are sure to be astounded by the exceptional talent on display.’
On 29 June a two-hour special titled NCO – The Full Works will be broadcast with Classic FM’s with material taken from an NCO concert in April. Classic FM’s Jane Jones will host the programme, which begins at 20:00 (GMT+1)
Founded in 1978, NCO’s mission is to provide young musicians with the chance to develop their talents in a national symphonic orchestra. NCO has six orchestras split into age bands: main orchestra (under 14s), under 13s, under 12s, under 11s, under 10s and a training orchestra for young string players. The orchestra’s alumni include Nicola Benedetti, Robin Ticciati and Guy Johnston.
Classic FM morning presenter Aled Jones commented: ‘All of us at Classic FM care deeply about nurturing and promoting the next generation of musical talent. I can’t wait to shine the spotlight on these brilliant young musicians.’
