Rotary in London has been successfully running the Rotary Youth Makes Music Concert on alternate years,for a number of years now. The standard of the performances has been rising year on year. The objective of the concert is to allow talented young musicians from across the district an opportunity to perform at a prestigious venue (like the Royal Festival Hall or the Barbican), in front of a discerning, paying audience. It is not a competition, although a number of clubs do run local “talent competitions” to choose the most talented performers to send to the District Concert.

Any young musicians who have achieved a good standard of proficiency may be considered. Vocalists, violinists, pianists, trumpeters or saxophonists – All are welcome. Full packs of information, including nomination forms etc are sent out to every club early in the Rotary year. Completed nominations by young musicians, supported by their music teachers and their sponsoring club must be sent to the District Youth Makes Music committee.

Progression to regional or national event.
As this is not a competitive event there is no progression to a regional or national event.

Age group(s).
Because the event is not competitive any musicians who are under 19 years of age are welcome to apply.

Commitment / involvement of clubs.
There is no financial commitment on clubs who sponsor a young musician. They merely have to confirm their support for the individual and liaise with parents/guardians to ensure transportation is arranged on the day. Support by Rotarians on the night is always sought. Tickets for the concert, which is open to the public, are reasonably priced. Programmes are also sold.

Timescales.
The next concert will be held in early 2011.

Implications for National Curriculum
Music Key Stage 2
Practice, rehearse and present performances with an awareness of the audience.

Key Stage 3 and 4
AS and A level music pupils have to perform in front of an audience – part of the assessment for these exams. Also at GCSE but to a lesser extent.