40th Anniversary Film Music Extravaganza: Lights, Camera, Encore!
Sunday 23rd March 2025
Nottingham Youth Orchestras, Albert Hall
REVIEWS BY NYO & ASPIRING YOUNG JOURNALISTS
The Albert Hall was alive with excited energy and anticipation as NYO came together to celebrate the first of its 40th Anniversary concerts. The adrenaline was palpable as, for the first time in years, all three symphony orchestras would be performing in the same concert hall arena in a joint concert.
The film music inspired programme included a wonderful light show, which also allowed for an ambient lighting level with students using stand lights, plus optional dressing up where the instrumentalists showed that their creative side extended beyond their musical talent! The performances included NYJO's film music inspired jazz-in-the-bar, and culminated in an exciting joint orchestral performance of music from the Lion King and rapturous applause from the sell out audience.
NYO's tutors, conductors and admininstrators were blown away, not only by how hard students have worked this term to produce such quality music making, but also how well behaved the youngsters were and engaged with the performances of the other orchestras. Post concert comments from parents include: "The concert Sunday was amazing"; "Well done to all involved."; "A huge thank you to all the conductors and organisers. It's inspiring to see how the different orchestras connect and how younger players can look ahead to their future musical journeys."
To give you an idea of the success of the afternoon NYO has invited young journalists to write a review of the concert. Scroll down for the first review written by a sibling of one of NYJO's performers...
A Phenomenal Performance From Each Inspiring Musician
by Rhiannah Janagap, age 16, year 12, The Becket School
The enchanting ambience is mesmerising as you feel swayed by the different styles of each song. The NYO band played a variety of genres from uplifting and upbeat tunes to dramatic, intense themes with each piece painting a different story both captivating the audience and drawing them in, wanting to know what happens next and how the story will resolve. An arrangement of lovely renditions of famous familiar tunes were included from 'How To Train Your Dragon', 'Lord Of The Rings', 'The Lion King' and many more.
For this special movie themed concert, we were lucky to hear 'Rhapsody In Blue' played with a special guest pianist Philip Sharp, who played with exquisite emotion. Each section of NYO had clear definition and sharp intonation while they were satisfyingly synchronised, their passion encaptured the overtone of each song perfectly. The ethereal symphony created an alluring atmosphere for the music to be truly appreciated.
As with NYJO, everyone's attention is drawn to the funky yet classy aura. The underlying rhythm will instantly make you want to dance along to the beat, as you are enticed towards the medley of every melody. They played renowned pieces and popular songs such as 'My Heart Will Go On', 'Mamma Mia' hits, 'Happy' and many others with jazz variations. Surprising the audience with their talents, some members were showcased with improvised solos and singing along with the jazz style of the band.
Overall, a phenomenal performance from each inspiring musician was the perfect way to celebrate NYO's anniversary 'Lights, Camera, Encore'!