Introduction

Remix has always aimed to explore contemporary musical genres, relevant to youth-culture through bespoke orchestral arrangements and while we are celebrating its 10th year with Remix: Revisited, 2014 wasn’t entirely it’s beginning!

The first two years of the project grew out of the cultural phenomenon that was Glee – blending musical theatre and other genres into a jukebox musical. Originating as ‘Birmingham on Broadway’ and ‘Back on Broadway’, a partnership project between CBSO Young Voices, the orchestras community choir for teenage voices, and a new training orchestra, Remix was rebranded in 2014 into the model you now see before you. Starting with an ensemble of only 16 young musicians and 7 CBSO tutors – it was in effect a glorified band! But it is the growth and development of this ensemble that has been one of its defining features.

There have been innumerable highlights over the last decade however I am most proud of the programmes that not only focused on talent development, but cross collaboration. Opportunities to work alongside choreographers, international artists, young composers and choirs. Inspiring young musicians and creatives, enabling them to access and explore a diverse range of musical genres that they ordinarily would not have the opportunity to play within a large orchestral setting at this age, and learning new skills.

I am privileged to have worked alongside so many exceptional musicians through this programme and proud of all we have achieved together.

Katie Lucas
CBSO Learning and Engagement Team, 2007-2024