in harmony project with the RLPO and julian lloyd webber

By Catherine Jones on Jul 14, 09 10:37 AM

I was among the audience at the Philharmonic Hall yesterday to hear the first concert given by youngsters taking part in the In Harmony project with the RLPO.
And they were joined on stage by cellist Julian Lloyd Webber who is the chairman of the project which is funded by the government and based on a successful scheme in Venezuela.

All the children, from Faith Primary School in West Everton, were so confident and enthusiastic it was a joy to watch, and I must admit to a little swell of pride when they finished the mini-concert with a performance of Hey Jude - played with members of the RLPO and also Julian Lloyd Webber who took his place not at the front, but at the back of the cello section!
They've only been learning for 12 weeks courtesy of around 90 free musical instruments including violins, violas, cellos and double basses. Teachers are also involved in learning alongside the children, with headmistress Sister Moira Meeghan one of those on double bass!
You'll see the images in today's Echo. Alas, my copy was cut to get more photographs in the paper, so here are some of the things people there said that didn't make the final story....

Julian Lloyd Webber: "I was incredibly moved by what I heard. To do this in 12 weeks is a miracle. I believe it's the start of something very, very special.
"I've always believed music should be for everyone.
"Of any city in England. Liverpool knows the power of music.
"It's a great project and these children have exceptional talent."

Schools Minister Diana Johnson said: "It's absolutely fantastic and a credit to the whole community. I was very impressed by the support in the hall. It's also great Julian Lloyd Webber came and played with them - he's a great champion for the project."

Sister Moira: ""This project has transformed the school. The children are enthusiastic and motivated. They want to come to school and be part of it."

Archbishop Patrick Kelly said: "I think it's a wonderful expression of regeneration on every level - for the building, for the community and a lovely example of cooperation between the Phil and the local community which has got to be good."

Lord Mayor Mike Storey said: "As a teacher I know how important music is to children and communities and schools. It's about the discipline that comes from music, working as a team and supporting each other."

Incidently, it was great to see so many community members supporting the children - the youngest audience member was only eight days old.