We were proud to learn that Jai, a GCSE student at Richmond-upon-Thames School, had decided she wanted to allocate her Jack Petchey Achievement Award grant to a Nonesuch Orchestra workshop. It’s been 18 months since we were last at RTS, when pupils played with us at a very successful Side-by-Side session.

At two lively workshops in November, we performed Corelli’s Christmas Concerto while music teacher Mr Matt Ketley and his classes analysed this important Baroque work as part of their GCSE Music course. A well-loved piece but a new acquaintance for most of the students - and evidently they enjoyed it!

Congratulations to Jai on her brilliant achievement and thanks for inviting us!