A stage with an orchestra performing in front of an audience

Careers and concerts: discover our schools programme!

Young music lovers are in for a Town Hall treat later this year with a feast of classical music. And teachers are being urged to snap up places at two inspiring events while they’re still available.

They’re part of a range of events being laid on by Town Hall-based music engagement programme Musinc.

Musinc provides opportunities for people in Middlesbrough to make music and connect with others, while offering a wide range of low-cost and free activities through its Tees Valley schools programme.

First up in October is the Set Works Concert for secondary school groups, which features live performances of classical works by Bach, Poulenc, Haydn, Debussy and more.

The pieces – which appear on the AQA and Eduqas GCSE and A Level syllabuses – will be performed by an orchestra of professional musicians, with live commentary and analysis by classical music enthusiast Stephen Waller.

Teachers can also submit requests in advance for pieces they would like to see.

Then in November students are invited to take part in a Music Careers Panel, offering them a unique insight into the vast range of musical occupations in the area, with the chance to put forward their own questions.

Panellists – drawn from the worlds of songwriting, events and publishing – will share their experiences and inspire young people to explore careers based around their strengths and interests.

This year’s line-up will be NARC Magazine editor Claire Dupree-Jeans, Middlesbrough Town Hall lighting and sound technician Holly Scarlett-Carr and Middlesbrough singer-songwriter Amelia Coburn, recently selected by TVCA as one of their Artists of the Year 2024. The event will be hosted by BBC Radio Tees presenter and rapper Shakk.

Comments from teachers who attended last year’s event:

Great panel, good chat and variety of topics with excellent stories and experiences

Very informative with clear explanations and very useful musical examples set at a good level for students

My students really enjoyed the concert this afternoon – they said it was really useful, almost all of the ones I brought had never seen an orchestra concert before so that was super cool! Would definitely come again if it was on!

Musinc Manager Samantha Spruce said:

“We’re delighted to be able to offer young people the opportunity to hear a live orchestra perform the works they’ve been studying, especially in a venue as beautiful as Middlesbrough Town Hall – it really brings the music to life.

“The creative industries are so often overlooked so it’s really special for us to be able to showcase different careers in the music industry, and to highlight the opportunities available for young people in the Tees Valley.”

Councillor Philippa Storey, Middlesbrough Deputy Mayor and Executive member for Culture & Education, said:

“Music is a gift that can be enjoyed by all, regardless of age or background,

“It’s an amazingly powerful art form that breaks down barriers, brings people together and provides enjoyment and inspiration in abundance.

“Musinc always set the bar high and these events are no exception – there’s still time to sign up so I hope as many schools as possible will take advantage of this unique opportunity.”

  • Set Works Concert: Monday, October 14, 1.30pm – 2.45pm, £3 per student
  • Music Careers Panel (BSL interpreted): Monday, November 18, 1pm – 3pm, FREE

For more information or to book places, email musinc@middlesbrough.gov.uk or visit our Schools page.

Published On: July 9th, 2024Categories: News