Exposed Magazine Studio Orchestra Tramlines Feature

Young musicians from Sheffield Music Hub’s Senior Orchestra prepare to play Sarah Nulty’s Main Stage at Tramlines on Saturday 27th July.

The Leadmill Studio Orchestra project combines emerging local artists with the youth orchestra’s array of talent, offering young people an unforgettable opportunity to pursue their passion for music on a huge stage.

The project first launched in late 2021, culminating in two breathtaking performances at The Leadmill and Crucible Theatre in Spring 2022. Now with all new artists Alice Ede, Sunburst, AJE, and Harris, taking inspiration from various genres, the project is back for another year after months of rehearsals and anticipation.

John Lyon, Director of the Sheffield Senior Orchestra, said: “Every fortnight or so for a few months, the artists would attend our Music Hub rehearsals to work on their tracks and try things out. The most rewarding part was seeing the level of support the young people had for each other. From the first rehearsal, everyone was cheering everyone else on, making them feel welcome and supported.”

Composer, arranger, and director of the Sheffield Philharmonic Orchestra George Morton has worked with the artists to create stunning orchestrations of their original tracks, merging indie, rap, and R&B with an eclectic mix of instruments.

The Tramlines gig promises to be a huge step up for the collaboration. Having boasted names like Nile Rogers, Madness, and Kaiser Chiefs, the orchestra project has big shoes to fill on the main stage.

“I think all the performers will know they can rise to that challenge. We’ll be bringing our A-game!” John added.

Along with the wealth of talent on show, the support of local organisations working to build the project cannot be understated.

John said of the collaboration: “Each of the young artists was from a different partner organisation of the Music Hub, be it Slambarz, Tracks, Waterbear, the Children in Care Council, and a whole host of other partners. It directly demonstrates the benefits of collaboration, partnership, and breaking down barriers.”

The Leadmill Studio Orchestra project promises to be an unforgettable performance, so be sure to arrive early on Saturday for the first main act of the day.

Music leader Rosie Mcconaghie said of the upcoming performance: “There will be intensity, high emotion and a lot of fun thrown in too!”

Watch the Leadmill Studio Orchestra on the Sarah Nulty main stage at Tramlines from 12.15, Saturday 27th July.

Supported by Tramlines Community Trust, The Sarah Nulty Power of Music Foundation, Sheffield Church Burgesses Trust and Sheffield Town Trust.