Only the best is good enough for Highland Young Musicians
Over 300 young musicians from across the Highlands have been busy rehearsing for their unique showcase Concerts Festival which will feature the eight diverse groups working under the umbrella of Highland Young Musicians.
Held in the Osprey Arena at MacDonald Aviemore Resort on Saturday 21 November, the festival will open with the robust sound of the Highland Youth Wind Band at 2.30pm. Their performance is being adjudicated for the Scottish Concert Bands Festival, and all the members hope to maintain the standard which will earn them an invitation to compete in the SCBF final next June, in Perth Concert Hall. It is hoped that the audience will make the most of their Festival tickets and stay on after HYWB to hear and support ‘Snas, the distinctive & forward-thinking traditional music group; the burgeoning Còisir G (Gaelic choir) with the first part of the days performances being completed by Highland Youth String Orchestra.
Following a short break, this matchless festival of music continues at 6pm with the rousing sounds of the Highland Youth Pipe Band. The ever-popular Highland Youth Big Band then takes to the stage, changing the mood completely. Highland Youth Choir follows them and the festival will end with the full symphonic majesty of the Highland Regional Youth Orchestra, under the baton of their new Conductor this season, Chris George.
The eight Highland Regional Music Groups are organised and run by The Highland Council as an extension to the work of its Instrumental Tuition Service. 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: “Following auditions, these groups are populated by some of Highland’s most talented young musicians from primary and secondary schools across the area and range in ages from 11 years up to 17. The groups give young players experience of performing live at the highest standards and a chance to develop their skills beyond any opportunity available in individual schools. It is a testament to the standards of these groups that external organisations and musicians are more than happy to collaborate with us. I hope as many people as possible take this opportunity to come and enjoy some terrific music. This unique festival is something we should be very proud of in Highland. It really offers something for everyone and can’t fail to prove that youth music-making in our area is flourishing.”
The festival is generously sponsored by Macdonald Aviemore Resort and Friends of Highland Young Musicians. Festival entry, costing £10 for 18 years and over and free for children allows ticket holders to come and go throughout the day. All entry will be by cash only on the day. Food and refreshments will be available in the venue during the event.
More information about all of the groups can be found at - www.highland-young-musicians.com