Meeting new people, making new friends and
enjoying the social aspects of the courses are all vital elements in
the pattern of National Schools Symphony Orchestra residential courses
says Peter Morris, Admissions Secretary
The National Schools Symphony Orchestra – NSSO – is an independent
orchestra which offers to musical youngsters aged 14 to 18 an
opportunity to spend a summer residential week playing together and
preparing for a high quality orchestral concert. NSSO is an orchestra
for young people from all types of educational background – from the
independent and the state sectors – and aims to provide a first class
musical experience with a high level of pastoral care, supported by
experienced staff, for boys and girls.
NSSO grew out of the IAPS
orchestras and its first concert took place at Snape Maltings in 1994.
During the last six years the orchestra has grown into an acclaimed
organisation working towards the very highest musical standards. After
the 1999 course at Wellington College and the very successful final
concert at Eton College, in which more than 120 young musicians
participated, one reviewer commented: “The calibre and excellence of
the playing served to highlight the very significant and important work
that NSSO is attempting as it meets the real need ... of musical
education for young people.”
Participants and parents are
overwhelmingly positive about their experiences of NSSO and there is a
high demand for places each year from existing members. As well as the
insistence on a high standard of performance from participants there is
an emphasis on enjoyment. Music-making should be fun; meeting new
people, making new friends and enjoying the social aspects of the
courses are all vital elements in the pattern of NSSO residential
courses. All new applicants are auditioned and there is no formal
requirement for course members to have reached a particular grade in
practical examinations.
NSSO is a registered Educational
Charity, governed by a board of trustees which includes school heads,
parents, governors, musicians and teachers. It gathers together an
experienced team of conductor, instrumental and section coaches drawn
from professional orchestras and residential staff to ensure the smooth
running of the summer courses.
As a long-term aim, it is hoped
that the organisation will be able to expand its activities beyond the
firm foundation already established so that more young musicians will
be able to benefit from the support NSSO can offer, through a variety
of courses and activities. It may be necessary to run two orchestras in
2001. Sponsorship is being sought for such expansion and details can be
obtained from the NSSO Director of Music, David Evans, 30 The
Moorlands, Malvern Wells, Worcestershire WR14 4PS. The sponsorship of
John Catt Educational Ltd is a vital part of NSSO’s success.
The
NSSO 2001 course will be held in Malvern, beginning on July 8 and
culminating in a concert at the Forum Concert Hall on July 15.
Auditions are being arranged around the country during January and
February. Fees, including tuition by specialist instrumental musicians,
all meals, accommodation and leisure activities, are:
Audition fee for new participants: £25
Registration fee (refundable to unsuccessful applicants): £150
Balance: £250
Further information and application forms may be obtained from:
Admissions Secretary
Peter Morris,
54 Rushall Manor Road,
Walsall WS4 2HF
Tel/Fax: 01922 644193
Email: enquiries@nsso.org
or visit us at www.nsso.org
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