Poly UK has agreed an ongoing programme of support which will facilitate workshops between RPO musicians and students from the school, careers initiatives and a number of performances. This includes the annual flagship concert held at the school which sees talented young musicians and singers perform an evening concert alongside the RPO – a highly rare opportunity.
The partnership announcement was made at this year’s annual concert, which saw over 500 parents, staff, and community members watch a range of performances, ranging from classical pieces such as Hummel’s Fantasie for Viola and Orchestra and Vivaldi’s Gloria, to a contemporary take on Pharrell Williams’ Happy.
Andy Stainton, Headteacher of Mill Hill County High School, comments: “We have collaborated with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra on a joint concert for the past ten years. Our students benefit from playing in a full orchestra with professional musicians and one student has the honour of performing as lead instrumentalist. This is a unique collaboration, not replicated anywhere in the world and we are grateful for the generous sponsorship from Poly UK to enable us to continue and expand this relationship into the future.”
Poly has a longstanding tradition of supporting youth music and arts across the globe. It has worked with the Australian Children’s Music Foundation on various partnership programmes, including providing funding for music teachers and instruments in under resourced schools, as well as a Harmony-Music programme which has helped bring art and music to communities in key global cities.
May Zhao, Executive Director, Poly UK, comments: “Poly always looks to make a positive impact in the communities where we are working and we firmly believe that the arts and education should be accessible to all. There is some exceptional young musical talent at Mill Hill County School and we are proud to be able to ensure that this unique opportunity will continue to thrive.”