A SIXTH year pupil from Kyle Academy was one of fifty secondary school pupils to take over the running of Scotland’s national symphony orchestra.

Joshua Parkhill (17), who is an accomplished trombonist and won Best Instrumentalist at this year’s Ayrshire Music Festival, joined the group of 16-18 year-olds at the Royal Scottish National Orchestra’s (RSNO) base in Glasgow.

For two days of intensive work experience, which culminated in a showcase concert for parents and friends.

The initiative, RSNO Takeover, is now in its fifth year, and offers young people who interested in music and the arts the opportunity to get a glimpse into the inner workings of one of Europe’s premier performing arts organisations. 

While being mentored by members of different departments, the young people used teamwork and leadership skills to develop and put on a concert in the RSNO Centre.

Joshua said: “Before Takeover I was unaware of the tremendous amount of work that goes on behind the scenes to make the musicians I see on stage at concerts look their best.

"While there I created a Keynote presentation to accompany the concert, learned about dealing with the media and I also helped organise a drinks reception for after the concert.

“This has been a great experience that has helped confirm my choice to have a career in the arts.”