Redbridge Music School Symphonic Band has returned from Birmingham after delivering an outstanding performance at the prestigious Music for Youth National Festival, held at the internationally acclaimed Symphony Hall on Saturday 11 July 2026.
The Music for Youth National Festival brings together thousands of the UK’s most talented young musicians who have been selected through regional festivals, celebrating excellence in youth music-making from across the country.
Performing on the stage of one of the world’s leading concert venues, the Redbridge Music School Symphonic Band presented a varied and challenging programme that earned high praise from Music for Youth mentor Damien Harron.
Following the performance, Music for Youth mentor Damien Harron praised the band’s confidence, musicality and engaging stage presence. He commended their performances throughout the programme, highlighting the excitement of Young Person’s Guide to John Williams, the precision and teamwork demonstrated in Haunted Objects, and the energy and expressive playing in RAYE’s Where is my Husband? He concluded:
“Well done everyone; you all really rose to the occasion with this stunning programme.”
A Career Highlight
Simon Roberts, Head of Redbridge Music Service, said:
“Watching our pupils perform on the stage of Symphony Hall was, without question, a career highlight. The standard of music-making was outstanding, but what impressed me most was the respect, encouragement and sense of community shown by young people throughout the festival.
Seeing our students perform with such confidence, maturity and professionalism was immensely rewarding. Moments like these remind us why music education is so vital. Music gives young people a voice, a sense of belonging and the opportunity to achieve something extraordinary together. It builds confidence, resilience, creativity and teamwork – qualities that extend far beyond the rehearsal room and into every aspect of life.
Every child, regardless of background or circumstance, deserves access to high-quality musical opportunities. The success of our Symphonic Band is a powerful example of what can be achieved when young people are given the chance to develop their talents, work towards a common goal and perform at the very highest level.
I would like to congratulate every member of the Symphonic Band and their conductor, Assistant Head of Service, Chris Wilcox, on this remarkable achievement, and thank the staff who have supported them along the way. It was a memorable occasion and one that everyone involved should be incredibly proud of.”
Martin Solder, Chair of Vision Trustees, said:
“On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I would like to congratulate every member of Redbridge Music School Symphonic Band on this outstanding achievement. To perform at the Music for Youth National Festival in Symphony Hall is an incredible accomplishment and a testament to the dedication, talent and hard work of our young musicians, their families and the staff who support them.
As a charity, Vision is committed to creating opportunities that help people of all ages learn, grow and thrive. This performance perfectly demonstrates the transformative power of music education. It builds confidence, inspires creativity and brings communities together, while giving young people experiences and memories that will stay with them for a lifetime.
We are immensely proud of everyone involved for representing Redbridge with such professionalism and excellence on a national stage. They are a real credit to our borough.”
The performance marks another significant milestone for Redbridge Music School, showcasing the exceptional talent, dedication and ambition of its young musicians on a national stage. Their success reflects the outstanding quality of music education in Redbridge and demonstrates the life-changing opportunities that music can provide for young people, inspiring confidence, creativity and lifelong skills.
For more information on musical opportunities available visit our dedicated webpages for Redbridge Music Service.
