Music First at the House of Lords
23/06/11
A reception to celebrate the formal launch of Music First took place at the House of Lords on 15th June. Hosted by Lord Falconer of Thoroton, this event marked Music First’s transition from our pilot hub at Highbury Grove to expansion across Islington and beyond.
The River Room was full of distinguished guests who were greatly impressed by the playing of Cyan Koay and Deronne White from Highbury Grove, and the youngest Music First ambassador present, Daniel Bernard, who performed as part of a cello trio with two Music First Hub tutors, Louisa Danmeri and Agnieszka Teodorwska.
To find out more about the exciting Music First project in Islington click here.
After clearing all the security checks and climbing up a load of stairs we found ourselves in the ‘river rooms’ in the House of Lords. The view was spectacular and overlooked the coffee shops by parliament and the river Thames. Everything looked irreplaceable from the paintings and chairs to the toilets (complete with bath tub and hair brush). I felt very privileged just to be there, but playing and speaking was a definite added bonus. The main point of the event was to raise funds and awareness of the Music First programme. Once the room was filled with potential sponsors, the smell of wine and canapés followed. They seemed to be impressed by the music, speeches and hospitality so hopefully they donated well. I really hope that Music First will carry on growing, so it can touch the lives of many other young musicians in Islington.
Cyan Koay, Year 13
Highbury Grove School,
Highbury Fields School
Cental Foundation Boys' School
St Aloysius' College