Chineke! Junior Orchestra Summer Residential

Photo Credit: Chuko Cribb

We are thrilled to share the exciting highlights from our recent Chineke! Junior Orchestra summer residential, which marked their return after a triumphant European tour last summer!

Our talented young musicians, aged between 11 - 22, took to the stage at Fairfield Halls in Croydon with stunning performances of compositions by Margaret Bonds, Samuel Coleridge Taylor, and a world premiere performance of a new work by British composer Tristen J T Watts. It was an unforgettable night of music that showcased the immense talent within the wider Chineke! family.

For an entire week, our 91 orchestra members immersed themselves in rehearsals at the picturesque Benenden School in Kent. The week away, as well as being a great chance for the orchestra members to get to know each other, let our Chineke! Juniors spend time learning key orchestral skills and delving into the details of the music. They were led in sectional rehearsals by members of the senior Chineke! Orchestra, and conducted throughout the week and in the concert by Shaun Matthew.

In addition to the intensive rehearsals, our young musicians enjoyed a well-deserved break with social activities across the week, including an informal performance night, a movie night, and a highly competitive quiz.

One participant summed up the experience perfectly, saying, “I loved meeting lots of new people and playing with people who look like me. I also enjoyed learning lots of tips from more advanced players and from the tutors.”

Said another young player: “I honestly had an incredible time and my time with the Chineke! Junior Orchestra was my best orchestral summer camp experience by far. I’m so grateful to have been a part of it.”