Pupils tune up for Sunderland Empire orchestra concert

The concert, set to take place on Sunday, is being billed as a unique opportunity for audiences to join the world-renowned Royal Philharmonic Orchestra in a fun-filled event, especially for families with children and young people with additional needs.

Orchestras Live ‘Sound Around’ with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra will be presented by young people from mainstream and special needs settings, who have been working together with industry professionals to produce the performance.

Keen pupils from Sandhill View and Southmoor academies have been involved in putting together the event.

Featuring a 25-piece orchestra, the concert will take the audience on a voyage of musical discovery, exploring the world of orchestral music through classical masterpieces alongside well-known TV and film themes. At the end of the concert there will be an opportunity to meet the musicians and even have a go at playing some instruments.

The concert is primarily designed for patrons who may be concerned about attending an orchestral concert and may find visiting the theatre a daunting experience. Th

Various special measures will be in place, with the house lights left on low and tno strobe lighting used.

Audience members are free to go in and out as needed and late-comers rules will be relaxed.

Additional staff members will also be on hand to assist as required, and quiet areas are provided for anyone who may become overwhelmed by the performance.

Stuart Bruce, partnership manager at Orchestras Live, said he hopes the understanding atmosphere will enable everyone in the family to enjoy a concert together.

“We have all worked hard to produce a concert that everyone can enjoy without judgment from others, and this is a wonderful opportunity for people to enjoy the inspirational experience of live orchestral music,” he said.

Two additional concerts will also take place at the Empire on Tuesday (MAR 28) which are specifically for schools from across Sunderland to experience the concert.

The event is presented in association with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, in partnership with Sunderland City Council and delivered through the city’s Sunderland Music Hub and Sunderland Empire.

It is being supported by Strategic Touring Funds from Arts Council England.