Dazzling orchestra and 2,000 Sheffield children bring City Hall alive with music

The Hallé orchestra played a dazzling concert to pupils from 34 primary schools and one secondary yesterday in the biggest classical music event of its kind in Sheffield.

Captivated children were played sublime renditions of pieces they learned in school – and then nearly blew the roof off when they joined the orchestra to sing This Little Light of Mine.

Kaiden Grayson, aged eight, said: “It is the best thing I have ever seen. I want to practise my guitar even more now.”

Ruby Beedon, nine, said: “The performance was so good. I’ve never seen an orchestra before and loved it.”

Caitlin Baker, nine, said: “I thought it was amazing – my favourite part was everything. I would like to learn violin as it makes such a beautiful sound.”

Krishnan Soni, eight, said: “I loved it all. I play recorder now, but I would like to learn violin after seeing the orchestra. I love how the violin swoops high and low.”

Tamzin Middleton, 11, said: “It was amazing. They didn’t just play old classical music for adults. They played what kids would like.”

Abdulahi Hassan, nine, said: “My heart was dancing.”

The event was organised by Sheffield Council’s Music Hub in partnership with the Hallé and City Hall.

The Music Hub is funded by Arts Council England and aims to help all children from all backgrounds discover and enjoy music.

Ian Naylor, Sheffield Council’s music hub manager, said: “This is the biggest event we’ve ever organised in Sheffield and we’ve had a fantastic response from the children and schools.

“Sheffield has a renowned reputation for unearthing great musical talent. We believe all children should be able to enjoy music, regardless of their background and family income, and work with partners to make this happen. We’d like to thank the Hallé for an amazing concert.”

The Music Hub has been teaching percussion to children in 24 primary schools over a ten week period.

The Hallé Orchestra performed a number of pieces from the BBC’s Ten Pieces Project, a scheme for seven to 16-year-olds that aims to open up the world of classical music.

They also played a piece by young Sheffield composer Finlay Teather, 19, who is studying music at The Sheffield College.

Finlay said: “It’s a wonderful experience to have my piece played by the Hallé. Just amazing.”