Take a Musical Journey with Sage Gateshead This Summer

Holidays at home should be about fun and discovering new things but they are also a great opportunity to learn some new skills and improve existing talents.  Sage Gateshead Summer Schools are the perfect way for children and young people to do just that.  From singing to conducting, creating a band to playing instruments there are loads of courses on offer for all ages and abilities. The Festival of Youth Orchestras from 28 July to 1 August offers a range of courses for string, woodwind, brass players and aspiring rock and pop stars. This year we welcome the Scottish National Youth Orchestra celebrating their 35th anniversary; they are joined by ‘the best trumpet player in the galaxy’ (The Times), Håkan Hardenberger. Catch the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain perform live before their BBC Prom performance at the Royal Albert Hall later in the month. The festival also features a performance by the National Youth Orchestra of Wales (led by the renowned conductor Jac van Steen) paying tribute to those who fought for their country during WW1. Folkworks annual Summer Schools in Durham from 11 to 16 August are renowned for their highly skilled and energetic tutors who deliver a week of inspirational folk music, song and dance participation.  Students connect with the traditions of Great Britain while making life-long friendships. For young people who want to improve their vocal talent, the Summer Sing season in partnership with the National Youth Choirs of Great Britain in late August has a range of courses to choose from.  The Youth Summer Sing with composer and conductor John Rutter  at Caedmon Hall, Durham on Friday 22 August is perfect for experienced singers aged 16- 22. At Sage Gateshead, junior singers aged 8-11 years can take part in 5 days of summer singing from Tuesday 26 to Saturday 30 August and 12 to 15 year olds have their own Teen Summer Sing session on Saturday 30 August.  A four day course, culminating in a performance with the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain is on offer to 16-22 year olds from Wednesday 27 to Saturday 30 August. Ed Milner, Head of Music Learning at Sage Gateshead, said: “If you’re looking for something musical to do this summer, then Sage Gateshead is the place to be; we’ve got something for everyone – spend your well-earned annual leave exploring your musical potential or find something exciting to keep the children entertained during the holidays, we’ve got musical opportunities for all ages and ability levels, vocal or instrumental.” To find out more about Summer Schools and how to secure a place, visit www.sagegateshead.com or call 0191 443 4661.