Blue Spark Foundation

BlueSpark supported the London Philharmonic Orchestra’s Open Sound Ensemble workshop initiative which supports the musical progression, personal development and social musical opportunities of young people aged 11 to 18 with special educational needs and disabilities in South East London. The aim is to make music making varied, fresh, exciting and fun. LPO musicians are seated with the ensemble groups. The LPO team observes participants during each session to see how they settle within the group, what they particularly enjoy doing and playing, how they interact with their peers and what they find challenging. The LPO told BlueSpark that the feedback from parents and carers has been very positive. One parent said “I thought it was a very inclusive experience, which was great.  C loved playing with the Orchestra. She was happy during the sessions and has not stopped talking about them since!” Another parent said that “A is really gaining an understanding of music and is making conscious decisions about how she wants to play and perform”. Another said “This is a wonderful experience. The LPO team leaders really engage all the young people.”