Violetta on Tour

Violetta Strings

Violetta Strings

Our Violetta ensemble lets our younger string players shine! Under the direction of Dr Owen Cox, our Deputy Head of Strings, Violetta take unique outreach performances on tour to inspire and engage local schoolchildren.

Since 2016, over 1000 children and teachers have welcomed Violetta to their schools, and several schools have met the ensemble at larger events.

In these sessions, young musicians introduce their string instruments and explain their role in the orchestra. Dr Cox and Outreach’s own Emma Cunliffe also take part, encouraging audiences – sometimes whole schools – to listen and respond to a specially chosen musical programme. Audiences are always full of great questions and get involved with lively conversations and demonstrations with their Chetham’s peers. Seeing musicians of a similar age to themselves or their brothers and sisters has a powerful impact on young audiences, and we get great feedback from schools:

  • I can’t tell you how much everyone – staff and children – enjoyed your visit. The music was really wonderful – the children will be talking about it for a long time to come!
  • It was just a shame we couldn’t fit any more classes into the hall – I know that every class wanted to be there. Please thank your amazing musicians and all involved – it really was a wonderful experience!
  • It was a pleasure to have you in school. I have had nothing but positive comments from both staff and pupils regarding the quality of your performance. Please come again!

If you would be interested in hosting Violetta in your school, or in finding out more about Outreach at Chetham’s, please contact us.