Late last year, Emily (Y12) joined the National Youth Harp Orchestra of Great Britain. Over Easter, Emily had the incredible opportunity to go to Portugal with the National Youth Harp Orchestra (NYHO) to play at a number of public performances.

Speaking about her experience, Emily said, “I went to Portugal with the National Youth Harp Orchestra for a week over Easter. We played in two formal concerts, including playing at the Algarve Faro Conservatoire with some young violin students from the Conservatoire. It was a great experience, not only to play in front of so many people, but also to get to know the other harpists better. We played a variety of music including some African music and folk music (and we also had time to enjoy the sunny weather, swim and go to the beach!). Harp is generally a solo instrument so it’s really fun to play with lots of other harpists.”

The aim of the NYHO is to provide a platform for young musicians to work together, gain confidence and experience, and improve their skills through regular rehearsals and broader concert arrangements. The NYHO is the only one of its type in the UK and now has over forty harpists.

Well done Emily, we look forward to hearing about future performances.