The concert took place in celebration of the tenth anniversary of the Music in Secondary Schools Trust (MiSST), of which Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber is a key supporter. Students at the academy joined together with 250 of their peers from across the country, all chosen by their schools to represent MiSST’s Andrew Lloyd Webber programme at the event. The programme operates in schools across the country, supporting students in Years 7 to 9 to learn an orchestral instrument.  

The concert included music by classical, jazz and film composers, as well as by Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber, who joined the students on stage for a performance of Any Dream Will Do from the musical Joseph.

Kayden, a student at Barnsley Academy who took part in the event, said:

“The concert was a great opportunity. I loved every minute of it!”

Charlie, another young musician at the academy, added:

“Learning and playing a musical instrument is definitely challenging but it really helps to develop strong listening and thinking skills, as well as imagination and perseverance.”

Naveed Khan, Principal at Barnsley Academy, said:

“Congratulations to our young musicians who took to the stage so confidently at this week’s MiSST concert in London. At Barnsley Academy, we strive to deliver an enriching and well-rounded education to our young people. This includes giving our students access to new and exciting opportunities like this where they can develop their creative talents, step outside of their comfort zones, and feel inspired by the people and places around them. We’re looking forward to continuing to support our young musicians as they continue to progress through the academy.”