Young performers tune up for celebration of music
Over 350 young musicians from across the Highlands as busy rehearsing for their annual showcase concerts which this year will take the form of a day long music festival and will feature eight different groups of performers.
Held in the Osprey Arena at MacDonald Aviemore Resort on Saturday 17 November, the festival will open at 2.30pm with the Highland Schools Wind Band. They will be followed by Còisir G, the Gaelic choir then the Highland Youth Big Band will take to the stage at 3.50pm.
The festival of music continues for the rest of the afternoon and evening with the Highland Youth Pipe Band on stage at 4.30pm. They’ll be followed by the Highland Youth String Orchestra at 5.40pm, snas’ the traditional music group will play from 6.20pm, the Highland Youth Choir 7.00pm and the festival will end with the Highland Regional Youth Orchestra performing at 7.40pm.
The eight Highland Regional Music Groups are organised and run by The Highland Council as an extension to the work of the Instrumental Tuition Service in Highland. Membership for all groups is by invitation after an Audition Day held in May each year. Some of the musicians are also members of national instrumental ensembles.
The Council’s Music Development Officer, Norman Bolton said: “The musicians performing come from primary and secondary schools throughout the Highlands and range in ages from 10 years up to 18. The musical groups give young players the experience of performing live and the chance to develop their skills beyond any opportunity available in individual schools. Everyone taking part, including the tutors, have been working very hard and gearing up for this event which is the highlight of the year. I hope as many people as possible take this opportunity to come and enjoy some terrific music. This festival will really have something for everyone and is a great way to not only celebrate music but also the talent and dedication of our young musicians.”
The festival is sponsored by Macdonald Aviemore Resort and Friends of Highland Young Musicians. A special festival ticket which allows ticket holders to come and go throughout the day is available and costs £10 for over 18 years and over and £5 for children. To book please contact 01349 886605 and quote “festival ticket”.