How I started my Journey:
I have always had an eclectic view of music, and have always had a strong belief that music brings people together and beauty can be found in all forms of it. Growing up in a mixed family meant that I was exposed to music within my household that many kids I went to school with didn’t show as much interest in as they did to the western pop music on the radio. I knew from a young age that I loved to sing and only grew more passionate and determined to master it as I grew up.
I started my journey at NYJO almost 4 years ago, as an inexperienced, eager to learn, and slightly more shy 11 year old girl. I wanted to expand my knowledge of music and meet new people with a shared passion when I first started partaking in workshops at NYJO. As mentioned earlier, I have always wanted to (and still do ) know everything I can about a myriad of music. Because of this, I went to a variety of half-term workshops, ranging from western based song writing, to soul, to east Indian classical.
After trying out these workshops, I learned that NYJO was a place where I wouldn’t be judged for my strengths and weaknesses, but understood and embraced for them. In year 8, I decided to apply to join a new Collective that was being formed and was accepted.
What I’ve learned so far:
When I applied, I was completely unaware of the sanctuary I would find here, the networking I would be opened up to, and the growth I would undergo in many aspects of my life because of NYJO; growth in musical confidence, growth in confidence to speak up, growth in comfortableness performing, and growth in my love of music.
My time here so far has taught me to speak up if I have an idea to put forward, that it’s not embarrassing to be passionate about my instrument, and so much more. Here, I have made a network of other young musicians and friends that support each other which has given me a sense of community where I would usually feel quite out of place.
My confidence in my instrument grew after winning a Jack Petchey award in my first year, because it showed me that my hard work hasn’t gone unnoticed, and that positive feedback can come from something I love.
How it’s going and my plans for my future at NYJO:
I have really enjoyed my time here so far and hope to continue in my current Collective, and join the Under 18s Band. Because of my time at NYJO so far, I am able to present a strong application to my dream sixth form, with one of my group leaders kindly offering to write me a letter of recommendation. I am also lucky enough to be doing my work experience here, giving me a look into the business aspect of music.
After winning the Jack Petchey award, my fellow bandmate and I were able to pull our money together and book a recording studio session at NYJO for our Collective. This opportunity gave me experience in studio recording (which from this, made me more eager to record in the future). It also inspired a close friend of mine whom I met through the NYJO Collective, to use her Jack Petchey funds for another recording session which I am very much looking forward to!
- Click here to find out more about the NYJO Under 18s, including how to join.
