MORE than 70 children and their parents have been given a free ticket to a Basingstoke Symphony Orchestra concert in the hope it will inspire them to learn how to play an instrument.

As part of the orchestra’s commitment to give young people in Basingstoke access to classical music, the lucky 75 young people have been given a ticket to the orchestra's next concert on Saturday, November 18 at The Anvil.

The orchestra's November concert soloist, internationally renowned pianist, Roman Kosyakov, also took up the piano from a young age after his mum took him to see a concert at the age of 6. 

He said, “There were lots of different instruments at the concert but I liked the piano the most!” Roman will be performing Grieg’s famous Piano concerto in A minor with the orchestra in November. 

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“We want to give opportunities to young people in our community to experience a live concert and be inspired to play an instrument. The Anvil was purpose-built for classical music and works closely within the local community so it’s a great place to start,” said Ann Henshaw, BSO Chair.

She continued: “At the November concert we are playing some of the most famous pieces of music ever written. This includes Beethoven’s 5th in C minor, which is instantly recognisable from its opening four notes and is a fantastic piece for young people and their families to enjoy together.”

The tickets were allocated on a first come, first serve basis and everyone who applied for a ticket under the scheme successfully received free tickets to the concert.

The pupils attending the concert range in age from six to 18 and all live and attend school within the nearby area.

Tickets are also on sale at the Anvil Box office and via the orchestra website www.bso.org.uk