Music Junction with London Chamber Orchestra

About 15 of our pupils will mentor about 50 primary school children throughout the spring term following a flashmob session where children are introduced to new instruments. Six workshops lead to a performance of a specially written piece at the end of the spring term alongside the London Chamber Orchestra. St Paul's is also helping LCO deliver this project by offering help in kind to reduce the budget making the whole scheme viable. 

Aims

To introduce primary school children to classical music and give them a chance to learn an instrument as well as experience live performance. Introducing music in primary school, where there is often no specialist, is crucial to allow more pupils access to classical music. It is hoped that some pupils will continue playing after the project and will have gained confidence as well as team work skills from taking part. Pupils will benefit as will the schools and parents. 

 

Background

We were approached by LCO who were looking for a partner in this scheme which has been running for ten years. This is the first time that we have taken part and we have signed up for three years. 

Resources

The main resource are our skilled musicians who are able to take part in the flash mobs and mentor others. We are also covering the cost of some professional musicians (c£2,000)  and helping in kind with admin and organisation (saving to LCO of about £7,000). Some sessions and this year's final concert will take place at St Paul's. 

Impact

Assessed by questionnaires as well as the clear progress of pupils taking part in the workshops and concert. 

Pupil Involvement

About 15 pupils (girls) from Y9-12 from St Paul's

About 50 pupils from three primaries. Likely to be Y4,5 but open to all.

Frequency

On going project for three years. Six workshops, concert, flash mobs in three schools. Training sessions for mentors.