University News Last updated 18 September
BMus trombone and tuba graduates Ollie Plant and Archie McVicar respectively have won places on the London Philharmonic Orchestra’s (LPO) Foyle Future Firsts programme. The scheme has been designed to nurture and develop talented orchestral players for future appointments to the LPO and other world-class orchestras and ensembles.
This annual development programme was established 21 years ago for early-career musicians in the transitional space between Higher Education (HE) and the world of work, equipping graduates with the tools they needed as they embark on an orchestral career.
During their first year as a Foyle Future First, Ollie and Archie will play alongside professionals in LPO rehearsals and hone their technique through lessons, as well as develop professionally through mentoring with an LPO Principal player.
They will also be given the opportunity to watch rehearsals and experience behind-the-scenes preparation, as well as to develop their creative leadership skills alongside other LPO players on education and community projects.
The scheme also offers its participants discounted tickets for all LPO concerts at the Royal Festival Hall.
Ollie said: “I’m excited and honoured to have won the audition for the LPO’s Foyle Future Firsts programme. Having taken part in a similar scheme with the London Symphony Orchestra over the past two years, I know how valuable these opportunities are in helping young musicians grow and gain professional experience. I’m very much looking forward to getting started and making the most of everything this programme has to offer.”
Archie said: “I’m looking forward to starting the scheme. I first found out about it when I was in second year and knew it would be an amazing opportunity for me to start picking up some professional work when the time came. There are some great projects planned as part of the scheme, and it’ll be even more fun doing them with Ollie who I’ve been great friends with and played a lot with since my first day at RBC five years ago.”
Head of Brass Ed Jones commented: “The Brass Department is incredibly proud of Ollie and Archie; it’s lovely to see our recent graduates taking such great strides forwards in pursuit of their dreams. The programme provides a tangible pathway towards high level professional orchestral work, and, therefore, competition for places is fierce. Ollie and Archie deserve huge congratulations for their successful auditions.”
Pictured: (l-r) Archie McVicar and Ollie Plant.