60 young musicians from across the region reunited at the start of February, to once again perform as Swan Youth Orchestra (SYO). SYO is an opportunity for students aged 11-18 at Grade VI level or above, with ensemble experience to take their orchestral playing to the next level.
A Jam-Packed Weekend
The intensive SYO weekend consisted of sectionals, workshops and full rehearsals, concluding with a public concert at Warwick Hall on the Sunday evening.
Students were tutored by professional Swan musicians and had the opportunity to play side-by-side with them. Led by the incredible conductor Rebecca Miller, students developed ensemble, performance and communication skills.
“I enjoyed the theme of dance and the small sectionals”
“I enjoyed the variety of sessions including sectionals, and I learnt that expression is more important than notes.”
“I enjoyed being with friends, good music, great opportunity and great inspiration and advice. I learnt to play confidently, and the rest will work out. I liked the theme of dance.”
SYO in rehearsal
The Sound of Dance
Conductor Rebecca Miller in rehearsal
A fantastic programme themed on dance music was performed:
| Aram Khachaturian | Waltz from Masquerade Suite |
| Johann Strauss II | Annen-Polka Op.117 |
| Ayanna Witter-Johnson | FAIYA! |
| Antonín Dvořák | Slavonic Dance No.2, Op.72 |
| Jacob Gade | Tango Jalousie |
| Arturo Márquez | Danzón No. 2 |
“A great course and fantastic programme over the weekend. It was such a pleasure to be able to work with the students on Saturday and then to hear the Orchestra perform so well on Sunday. ”
“The SYO weekend was a revelation, even to someone with a lifetime in music. It offered all those young players the chance to achieve the ambitious transition from individual lessons to making music together. To see the rapport Rebecca Miller so empathetically created, to observe the clarity of her leadership, and hear her underline the importance of listening as well as watching, was truly inspiring. The side-by-side playing with Swan members embedded the highest standards deep into the texture.
In the sectionals our Swan players homed in on technique, interpretation, energy, and much else that could be taken away and imparted to the performance. The overall effect was transformative and so very moving: the markedly improved performance, and the joy, delight and satisfaction of collective music-making for teachers as well as learners, were palpable. The Orchestra of the Swan is truly helping form the players of the future.”
Simon Littlewood, Chairman of the Orchestra of the Swan Board
Join Us Next Year
The next SYO weekend course will take place on Saturday 4th – Sunday 5th of October 2025.
If you know of a young musician who might be interested, keep an eye on this page to find out when you can apply.
If you would like to find out more about SYO, or how you can offer your support, please call the Swan office on 01926 350028.
SYO is delivered in partnership with Warwick Schools Foundation, Warwickshire Music Hub, Coventry Music Hub and Solihull Music Hub, now the combined Heart of England Music Hub.
SYO performing Tango Jalousie by Jacob Gade
