National Youth Orchestra honour for Islandmagee musician

Theo Hayward is one of three young people from Northern Ireland chosen to become a member of the orchestra for 2023.

As the Belfast Royal Academy pupil explains in his National Youth Orchestra profile, a switch of instruments has proved rewarding: “I played the violin initially but always preferred the sonority of the viola and started playing it four years ago. From then my love for the instrument has grown exponentially.

"My grandad helped push my standards higher and inspire me to make music an integral part of my life, not just a hobby.”

The talented teenager’s CV also includes experience with the City of Belfast Youth Orchestra, Ulster Youth Orchestra and National Youth Orchestra of Wales.

Congratulating Theo, East Antrim MP Sammy Wilson said: “This is a great honour for Theo personally and having met and spoken with him, I know he will be a great ambassador for Northern Ireland. Theo’s admission means he will attend training with the National Youth Orchestra during school holidays, play in concerts at venues like the Royal Albert Hall and tour with the Orchestra across the UK.

“As we discussed when I met with him, playing a musical instrument has been transformational for Theo and given him a confidence. Playing the viola at such a high level has instilled a sense of discipline and determination in Theo which has fed into other aspects of his school and personal life.

“He is to be applauded for this achievement and we wish him all the best with his music career in the years ahead.”