University News Last updated 20 September
Graduate harpist Stien De Neef and Master’s flute student Japheth Law have been selected for the Foyle Future Firsts Development Programme.
Graduate harpist Stien de Neef and Master’s flute student Japheth Law have been selected for the London Philharmonic Orchestra’s (LPO’s) annual Foyle Future Firsts (FFF) Development Programme, alongside 14 other young musicians from across the country.
The programme aims to bridge the transition between education and the classical music profession for early-career orchestral musicians.
It nurtures and develops talented orchestral players, forming the base for future appointments to the London Philharmonic Orchestra, and other world-class orchestras and ensembles.
During their year as a Foyle Future First, Stien and Japheth will play alongside professionals in London Philharmonic Orchestra rehearsals, have lessons with an LPO Principal player, benefit from mentoring, and develop creative leadership skills on education and community projects.
Stien said: “I am delighted to have been selected for the Foyle Future Firsts programme of the London Philharmonic Orchestra 2024/25. Looking back at my time at RBC, I am grateful for the invaluable training and experience I have received under the tutelage of Rita Schindler.”
Japheth said: “I’m incredibly excited and honoured to be part of the coming year’s LPO FFF. I'm very grateful for the encouragement and unwavering support from my RBC teachers Marie-Christine Zupancic, Andrew Lane, and Helen Benson."
Head of Strings Nick Trygstad said: “We are delighted Stien and Japheth have been given the opportunity to join this elite programme and we look forward to watching their careers develop over the coming years. RBC believes passionately in the power of orchestral music to enrich lives, both for players and audience members. Their success is an inspiration for us all.”