80 Schools for the RPO’s 80th Anniversary: Joanna Marsh Inspires the Next Generation

To celebrate the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra’s 80th anniversary, RPO Sub-Principal Flute Joanna Marsh has set herself the challenge of performing at 80 schools and youth clubs this year.

These workshops involve demonstrating the flute and talking about her life as an orchestral musician to inspire young people to get involved with music. The Orchestra's Artist Laureate, the composer and conductor John Rutter, even composed new music for her to play for the challenge.

After a recent visit to St Mary's Primary School in Welwyn, Hertfordshire, she inspired five children to immediately sign up for flute lessons.

As a child, hearing professional musicians play in front of her sparked her passion for orchestral music. Now, she’s driven to pass that inspiration on, emphasising that music isn’t just about becoming a professional, it’s about the joy of playing and creating music with others.

We’ve been delighted by the overwhelming response from schools and youth groups wanting to take part, and she looks forward to continuing to share her passion for music.