From the start it was envisaged that CoSMOS would
have a teaching function in addition to performing concerts.
During the year 2000 an Academy was run on Saturday
mornings providing tuition on strings, woodwind and brass.
The numbers attending were fewer
than anticipated, and the venture became financially unviable. There was
no teaching during 2001 or 2002.
Funding from the Community
Foundation was obtained during April 2003 to start a Youth Music Club. The
club effectively took the place of the Academy and combined formal
instruction on a variety of instruments together with social activities
and games. Some 20 members were enrolled and the club met with
considerable success. However funding to continue the project was not
forthcoming and the club closed sometime in October.
A
Youth Orchestra was then established which was originally known as The
Sunderland Symphony Youth Orchestra. This group was formed from the
Usworth Youth Orchestra, already established in Washington, but located
in a school which was due for closure. It was intended that this group
would be part of CoSMOS and the stepping stone to the adult orchestra;
hence the name.
The first meeting
was on Saturday 25th September 2004, and was for anyone between the ages of
11 to 18. Musical tuition was made available.
Aim: To
give young people in Sunderland & surrounding districts the opportunity
to develop musical skills in orchestral technique & performance.
Objectives:
To perform concerts of well known music; visiting homes for the
elderly and other institutions in the furtherance of musical
appreciation within the community.
Teaching:
The SSYO had qualified experienced tutors for all orchestral
instruments, who met the criteria of working with young people of all
ages and abilities.
Standards:
Range from beginners to Grade VIII of the Associated Board of the Royal
Schools of Music.
In July 2004, a
new project was established by Rupert Hanson under the title of 'Music
for All.' This project was completely separate from the Society and the
adult orchestra. Within a short time the Youth Orchestra became
part of that project, changed its name to The Sunderland Youth
Orchestra, and continues as part of 'Music for All'.
