The National Youth Orchestra kicked off its 2026 programme in style with a scorching debut performance that showcased the young musicians' undeniable energy and talent. Alexandre Bloch's precise control over his massive ensemble was impressive, but there were moments where the complex scores felt slightly overpowered by the sheer size of the group.
Debussy's Ibéria, premiered in 1910, is a delicate and evocative piece that conjures up images of sun-bleached Spanish streets. While Bloch kept the work under wraps, with some rhythms juddering and scales sometimes smudged, there was still something captivating about this watcolour-like painting of Spain through Gallic eyes.
The Ravel set, including the iconic Rapsodie Espagnole, was similarly effective, particularly in its swirling rhythms and celebratory release. The Bernstein-penned City Scenes, meanwhile, injected a much-needed dose of swagger into the proceedings, with its neon-bright brass and woodwind phrases snarling and rasping like streetwise sirens.
But it was two contemporary works that really allowed the NYO to shine. Karim Al-Zand's 2006 City Scenes brought out new swag in the orchestra, while Anna Clyne's DANCE, a cello concerto inspired by Rumi's poetry, showed off their versatility and musicality. The way Inbal Segev's cello sang with the ensemble was nothing short of breathtaking, as Aki Blendis and Charlotte Shlomowitz duetted stylishly with her.
The programme also featured an opening group riff on Autumn Leaves, complete with tuba and bassoon solos, and a spirited encore of Rossini's William Tell Overture. It was a broad and thrilling programme that hinted at the breadth of what these teenagers can achieve by August.
The Shimmer tour continues on 5 January at Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, and 6 January at the Royal Concert Hall, Nottingham.
Debussy's Ibéria, premiered in 1910, is a delicate and evocative piece that conjures up images of sun-bleached Spanish streets. While Bloch kept the work under wraps, with some rhythms juddering and scales sometimes smudged, there was still something captivating about this watcolour-like painting of Spain through Gallic eyes.
The Ravel set, including the iconic Rapsodie Espagnole, was similarly effective, particularly in its swirling rhythms and celebratory release. The Bernstein-penned City Scenes, meanwhile, injected a much-needed dose of swagger into the proceedings, with its neon-bright brass and woodwind phrases snarling and rasping like streetwise sirens.
But it was two contemporary works that really allowed the NYO to shine. Karim Al-Zand's 2006 City Scenes brought out new swag in the orchestra, while Anna Clyne's DANCE, a cello concerto inspired by Rumi's poetry, showed off their versatility and musicality. The way Inbal Segev's cello sang with the ensemble was nothing short of breathtaking, as Aki Blendis and Charlotte Shlomowitz duetted stylishly with her.
The programme also featured an opening group riff on Autumn Leaves, complete with tuba and bassoon solos, and a spirited encore of Rossini's William Tell Overture. It was a broad and thrilling programme that hinted at the breadth of what these teenagers can achieve by August.
The Shimmer tour continues on 5 January at Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry, and 6 January at the Royal Concert Hall, Nottingham.
! I mean, it's such an old piece, but they made it feel fresh and new again. And that Ravel set? Iconic moments all over the place! 
But what really stood out to me were those two contemporary pieces - Al-Zand's City Scenes and Clyne's DANCE... The way the orchestra just poured their hearts into them was infectious 
. I'm not surprised they killed it at the opening gig 
, can't wait to see how they do on tour!
! The energy in the room was palpable and those young musicians absolutely killed it 
. I loved how they balanced out the classic pieces with some more modern vibes - it kept things fresh 
. But what really stood out to me was how each section came together as a cohesive unit 
. Even when the scores got a bit complex, the orchestra still managed to convey the emotions without overpowering each other 
! Can't wait to see what they have in store for us next 
I was so blown away by this debut performance! The energy in the hall was electric 
. And Ravel's Rapsodie Espagnole? Forget about it! Those brass and woodwind sections were on point 
The way they played City Scenes from Karim Al-Zand just got me pumped up 
and Anna Clyne's DANCE was seriously moving 
. And that cello solo by Inbal Segev? Wow, what a voice 
it really showed off the orchestra's versatility. I'm loving this tour so far! 
I love how they took this 110-year-old piece and made it feel fresh again, even if it was a little rough around the edges.
. So even when things get tough or don't quite come together as planned, it's all about learning from those moments and growing 
his energy was palpable 
, but some parts felt a bit messy 
. The Ravel set though? 
. Are we seriously gonna start seeing that one again? It feels like they're rehashing old material instead of pushing the boundaries. And what's up with this "broad and thrilling programme" vibe? I mean, I've heard that phrase before... sounds kinda generic 
. Give me something new, you know?
. These teens are the future of classical music, and I'm stoked to see what they do next! 
The National Youth Orchestra's debut performance for their 2026 program was quite captivating, showcasing the youthful energy and musical prowess of the ensemble. Alexandre Bloch's precision in managing his massive group was commendable, although some complex scores may have been slightly overwhelmed by the sheer size of the group.
! They totally brought the energy and talent to that stage. I mean, Alexandre Bloch did an amazing job leading that massive ensemble, but some of those complex scores felt like they needed a bit more space to breathe 
! And the Ravel set? Totally got me moving with its swirly rhythms and celebratory vibes 
