Holiday music courses: end of an era?

Many of today's musicians are in the profession having experienced profound inspiration; perhaps an amazing live performance, a fantastic teacher or an intriguing recording. Whatever their path, they will have been ‘zapped’ at some point, leading to a deep-seated realisation that they wanted music to fulfil a huge part of their lives, through teaching, playing, composing or some other creative musical outlet. They are also likely, however, to have been deeply influenced by the role of music courses, which – particularly during the pinnacle of county music service provision – would have been bountiful for aspiring professionals.

For those of us fortunate enough to grow up during this period, music courses were a regular and powerful part of our education. These holiday activities generally involved either the county youth orchestra or wind band. Instruments and tutors were provided, along with a professional conductor and, often, free lunch. Other courses at intermediate and junior level also took place, and concerts were performed in local venues to which the general public was invited. Parents were usually delighted with this arrangement (how could they not be?), which prevented bored children getting on their nerves during the summer break. There was the added bonus of seeing their offspring performing in very high-quality concerts in exciting venues, often with professional soloists and truly fabulous repertoire.