The Music for Youth (MFY) Proms, which will take place in London’s Royal Albert Hall on 27–28 November, will bring together more than 1,500 young musicians in ensembles, bands and choirs performing music from classical and folk to big band, raga, steel pans, rock and pop.
A highlight of the Proms will be the world premiere of Cassie Kinoshi’s the colour of all things constant for massed choir and orchestra. Commissioned in partnership with the BBC, ABRSM and the Royal Albert Hall as part of the BBC Ten Pieces project, the work sets words by the Zimbabwean-born poet Belinda Zhawi on the theme of kindness. Kinoshi posted on Instagram: ‘What makes this commission even more special is that it’s almost like a full circle – I performed at the Royal Albert Hall with my school in 2004 when I was about eleven. It was a life-changing experience and feels really meaningful to be giving back via this piece – introducing young people to the profound impact of the arts early on is so, so important.’ Other works from the BBC Ten Pieces list will also be performed during the Proms.
In addition, as part of its Thank Your Music Teacher campaign, MFY is inviting young people to share their stories of how their teacher has made an impact on them; some of the stories will feature during the Proms. This can be done in several ways: by record a short video message (up to 45 seconds) and sending it to MFY; posting it on social media with #ThankYourMusicTeacher; DM a photo or video on social media at @musicforyouth; or email marketing@mfy.org.uk. Via the MFY website, students can also nominate a music teacher for the Thank Your Music Teacher Moment during the event.
MFY’s CEO, Phil Castang, said: ‘The Music for Youth Proms showcases the brilliance of young musicians from across the whole UK and this year promises to be very special.’
Booking is now open.
- Tickets for the Music for Youth Proms 2024 are available through the Royal Albert Hall box office: royalalberthall.com/tickets/events/2024/music-for-youth-proms
- For more information on the event, including the full programme and details on how to get involved with the #ThankYourMusicTeacher campaign, visit mfy.org.uk/get-involved/prom-2024.
- mfy.org.uk
