Henley Youth Festival is a totally individual event and as far as we know there is nothing quite like it anywhere else in the country. It is a means of celebrating the talents and achievements of young people in our area. Around 1000 schoolchildren take part in some 35 events over two weeks in March. We are looking for a professional musician or teacher who would be able to come along to our Junior Proms event and act as a "Special Advisor".

HYF Junior Proms is an event aimed at primary school children. Held at Shiplake College, the day is divided up into 4 mini-concerts for children to play or sing in an encouraging and supportive environment. Parents come and watch their children perform and during the course of the day, we see around 70 young musicians and their parents.

We ask our Special Advisors to listen to children's performances in two short mini-concerts (2 hours in total), write feedback for each performer and to stand up and make a few positive, encouraging comments at the end of each mini-concert.The ability to engage with the 12 or so performers in each mini-concert is essential. We are looking for someone who would be happy to stand up and speak to the children and their parents at the beginning of the concert to introduce themselves and put our young performers at ease!

This opportunity would suit professional musicians or teachers who have an ability to engage with children and are comfortable with addressing an audience. If you are considering becoming an examiner or adjudicator and would like to gain the relevant experience, this opportunity is for you! In previous years we have had teachers and heads of music from state and independent schools alongside professional musicians who have all given their time because they believe passionately in giving young people the opportunity to celebrate their talents and gain experience of performing in front of others.

Lunch and refreshments will be provided on the day plus a contribution towards travelling expenses.

If you would like to discuss this further or have any questions, please do get in touch.