60 young musicians from six Sistema programmes in Liverpool, London, Newcastle, Norwich and Telford will gather in August 2016 at Shrewsbury School for the Sistema England Young Leaders orchestra residency.

The orchestra, which has almost doubled in size since the October 2015 programme launch, will include woodwind and brass sections and welcome new players from Newcastle and Telford. The week-long residency will be led by returning Venezuelan Music Director Felix Briceño and outstanding musicians from the Chineke! orchestra.

The Sistema England Young Leaders programme seeks to demonstrate what young people can achieve with inspiring teaching and belief in their potential. According to existing members, the orchestra is helping them persevere and overcome doubt, encourage others, become more expressive and build confidence.

Our 3-year aim is to build a Youth Company of 150 members. Thanks to our generous funders and donors we are storming ahead with our August 2016 residency. We have nearly raised the funds required for the week, and are making a final appeal to ensure that the Sistema England Young Leaders have the best possible experience. If you would like to help us achieve this, we are grateful for all donations.