History
The National Children’s Orchestra of Great Britain was formed in 1978 by Vivienne Price MBE, who saw the need for talented children aged under 14 to have their own symphony orchestra. Youth orchestras existed for teenagers, but younger children, if they were admitted at all, felt they did not fit in socially, however brilliant their playing.
The first course attracted 70 players and proved such a success that a more ambitious programme and more prestigious concert halls were chosen for the next two years. By 1981 so many children were applying to join that the Training Orchestra was set up for those who had just missed out. In 1983, Diana, Princess of Wales became Patron and paid several visits to courses and concerts.
Over the next thirty years the NCO developed and grew - increasing the number of age-banded orchestras to five and inviting guest conductors to rehearse and conduct main orchestra, such as Peter Stark. Dame Ruth Railton was succeeded as Chairman by Andrew Kemble, Joint Managing Director of Yamaha Kemble Music (UK) Ltd. The Orchestra continued to perform in a variety of settings, including live on Blue Peter and at the Schools Proms in the Royal Albert Hall.
In 2000, Roger Clarkson was appointed as Director of Music and the NCO office moved from Surrey to Somerset. 2001 brought an invitation from Downing Street to perform at the then-Prime MinisterTony Blair’s private party. Two overseas tours, one to China and the other to Italy, helped to raise the international profile of the NCO. In 2008 the NCO celebrated the 30-year anniversary of its foundation with a spectacular Gala Concert at Symphony Hall in Birmingham, bringing together all five hundred members for a memorable and joyous evening.
David Railton QC became Chairman in 2009 and further board appointments brought new business and charity management skills to the table. The charity is now at a very exciting stage of its development, having recently expanded the office team to 10 members, and is ready to ensure that future generations of children will continue to develop personally and musically within the unique environment that this world-class children’s orchestra provides.
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