All together now! Young musicians’ tribute to the Queen
Young musicians from across Derbyshire have come together to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee with a special performance.
Over 100 musicians from South East Derbyshire Music Centre (SEDMC) joined forces for a mass performance of the national anthem to mark the occasion.
The Jubilee performance has been a double celebration, as it also marks the first time the full group of members have been able to play alongside each other since the start of the Covid pandemic.
The event was the idea of SEDMC tutor Matthew Barks, who conducted the massed orchestra for the special performance. Matthew said of the event, “It was really moving to bring every member of our music centre together after such a long time. And what better way than by celebrating Queen Elizabeth’s Platinum Jubilee. Our music centre has always had a big community feel, and it was great to see all our musicians – from beginners to advanced players – supporting each other for this special event.”
South East Derbyshire Music Centre, based at Kirk Hallam Community Academy, provides professionally-led rehearsals and regular performance opportunities for youngsters of all abilities – from those just starting learning an instrument, through to musicians applying for university or conservatoires.
During Covid the charity was forced to halt its normal face-to-face rehearsals, and instead ran online sessions for members and a virtual concert, before gradually returning to in-person rehearsals as the pandemic restrictions lifted.
SEDMC is now back up and running with weekly face-to-face rehearsals on term-time Saturday mornings. The charity runs a wide variety of groups for young musicians of all abilities – helping members to develop their musical skills whilst growing in confidence and enjoying social opportunities. On offer is a range of bands, orchestras, choirs and a guitar ensemble – with a new beginner’s music club launching in September.
New members are always welcome, and young musicians can come and try out a session for free by signing up at www.sedmc.co.uk.
Photos: Event organiser and SEDMC tutor, Matthew Barks and SEDMC members performing the national anthem.
