YOUNG musicians have been inspired by the power of music after working alongside one of the country's best orchestras.

 

The Northern Sinfonia spent half a day with students at Emmanuel College, Gateshead, reaching a crescendo with two concerts in the school hall.

 

The 40-strong orchestra performed section by section to show an audience of young musicians the various layers of orchestral movements.

 

Conductor Alan Fearon said: "The sessions are designed to inspire students who have an interest in music."

 

Principal Jonathan Winch said: "It has been such a privilege to have one of the best orchestras in the country in our school.

 

"We have very close links with The Sage Gateshead but to have an orchestra this close has been a true inspiration to students."

 

Emmanuel College runs Music for All, a programme designed to encourage as many students as possible to take up an instrument, rehearse in class and perform.

 

Sixth former Sarah Henry, 17, of Low Fell, sings and plays viola. She has been involved in music for nine years and is taking the subject at A Level.

 

"I can't speak highly enough of the music department where I seem to spend most of my life," she said.

 

"Bringing the Northern Sinfonia to school was truly inspirational, they sounded fantastic and the volume and quality was unbelievable."

 

Alan Thompson, 12, of Gateshead, who has just taken up the violin, added: "When you play an instrument, it is such a brilliant experience. It is just a hobby but I love it and the teaching we get is really good. The Northern Sinfonia were fantastic."

 

Vice Principal Matt Waterfield said Emmanuel was ahead of many schools in offering the chance to learn a musical instrument so widely among students.

 

He added: "Among Years 7-9 most students are in our string or wind orchestras or sing in the choir and are developing an enjoyment of music through learning and performing. It is part of a concerted effort to inspire and educate young people in music through playing together."