[Alison Lambert]
Alison Lambert, past member of MYO, appearing as a soloist with the orchestra

“It was such a thrill to be in the midst of a big symphonic sound and to play such pieces as Dvorak 8, Brahms 2 and Hindemith's Symphonic Metamorphosis. Now I am a professional violinist, I look back with much gratitude for the experience the MYO provided. I would strongly urge young musicians in the Midlands to consider applying to join the Midland Youth Orchestra.”
Pauline Lowbury – distinguished international violin soloist, chamber musician, leader and recording artist.

“I have always found that I've learnt so much from sitting next to people who are better and more experienced than myself – usually things which teachers cannot tell you. This, together with the obvious advantage of learning more repertoire, makes a good youth orchestra like the MYO a ‘must’ in a young musician's career.”
Gary Smith – freelance professional horn player, formerly principal horn of the Orquestra Sinfonica Portuguesa.

“The all too brief time that I was a member of the MYO was of immense value to me, providing that bridge between a ‘school’ and a ‘professional’ orchestra. I remember well concerts that inspired you to realise what a wonderful privilege it is to play such great music. The fact that I am able to do this with the BBCSO now is in no small measure due to the MYO and I shall always be deeply grateful for the opportunity and experience the MYO gave me.”
Robert Bishop – former sub-principal violinist of the BBC Symphony Orchestra and freelance with the English Chamber Orchestra.

“As you will know, there was a time when the MYO was the only Youth Orchestra in town, and now others have copied the act, with varying degrees of success. The long history of the MYO is the standard by which other organisations will be judged, and that is the biggest compliment of all.”
Jonathan Taylor – sub-principal violinist (and former board director), Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra.

“Being in the MYO was a great experience for me, both musically and socially. Thinking back, I am amazed at the challenging repertoire we covered, and this has stood me in really good stead for my professional life as a lot of the pieces I play now I actually learnt whilst in MYO! It was inspiring to be in an orchestra of such a high standard, and I was also honoured to be asked back as a soloist.”
Alison Lambert – freelance professional clarinettist and past soloist with the MYO.

“Under the directorship of Stephen Williams and James Langley, I was challenged, inspired, and worked hard. MYO was one of the most important parts of my musical development; it gave me the confidence and desire to go and study music at University.”
Moragh Brooksbank – music officer, South West Arts Board.