In July 2015 four ESNCM students travelled to the UK courtesy of the Choir of London to study and play with some of the UK’s top musicians. Amira Isaac, a clarinetist from Bethlehem Branch, Ahmad Saddouq, a violinist from Nablus Branch, Joud Ammous, a cellist from Jerusalem Branch, and Sara Aqel, a pianist from the Gaza Music School, were awarded bursaries from the British Council/Choir of London Bursary Scheme.  The Scheme offers young musicians from Palestine the chance to travel to the UK for two weeks each summer, attending a residential music course with young British musicians before a five-day residency at a music college in London, ending with a public showcase concert. 

 

During the first week, the group trained with teachers from the Pro Chorda Chamber Orchestra, played games, sang and played music, as well as discussing the Palestinian issue and situation.  In the second week, the group studied at the Royal Academy of Music, where they took part in workshops and masterclasses with British musicians. The group was also able to attend a concert by the Mahler Chamber Orchestra at the Royal Albert Hall. 

 

Amira reflected on her experience: “Participating in the Bursary Scheme this summer was one of the best experiences I have ever had. I cannot really find the best words to describe what I experienced. It would take a year to explain the way I felt during my stay in London”.