The five BBC orchestras join up with Young Sounds UK for a national mentoring programme for 15-17 year-olds

BBC and Young Sounds UK Exchange programme in 2022 (Photo: BBC)

The five BBC orchestras – the BBC Symphony Orchestra, BBC Concert Orchestra, BBC Philharmonic, BBC National Orchestra of Wales and BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra – are joining up with Young Sounds UK (formerly Awards for Young Musicians) for a national mentoring programme for 15-17 year-olds across the UK. 

Beginning in September this year, the project will connect with the young people at pivotal points in their lives, preparing for music college or university or making decisions about career options. Twenty-four 15-17 year-olds, all of whom have won an award with Young Sounds UK, will be matched with a BBC musician for six mentoring sessions. They will gain access to music experiences across the BBC with their mentors acting as a role model, guide and advocate. Representatives from each of the BBC Orchestras will be taking part, ensuring young people across the UK have access to the programme.

The partnership builds on the success of the 2022 BBC and Young Sounds UK Exchange programme pilot, which brought young people together with musicians from the BBC Symphony Orchestra. Now the partnership includes all of the BBC orchestras and there will be opportunities to learn alongside the teams at Radio 3, BBC Audio and BBC Proms, highlighting careers and opportunities beyond the stage. 

Young Sounds UK has four main programmes aimed at removing the financial barriers and other obstacles that prevent young people getting into music, and helping realise their potential once they’re on their way. The charity began life as as The Musicas Fund in 1998, established from the sale proceeds of Robert Lewin’s collection of stringed instruments, bows and books. This would later become Awards for Young Musicians before becoming Young Sounds UK. 

Further details from the Young Sounds UK website.