Talented young musicians perform at Number 10
Two talented young musicians from Kilmarnock Academy and The Robert Burns Academy, namely Heather Anderson and Kirsty Gemmell performed at 10 Downing Street and the House of Commons recently as part of a group of senior players from the Ayrshire Fiddle Orchestra.
At the invitation of The Speaker, the group were invited to entertain MPs at the House of Commons. Two separate performances within the Palace of Westminster was followed by a day of touring Parliament and sitting in on Prime Minister’s Question Time, before performing at Number 10 for the Prime Minister’s Burns Reception. They played with great energy throughout the two hour reception. The visit was rounded off with a lunchtime concert in the Scotland Office to celebrate Burns Day.
Councillor Elaine Cowan, the Council’s Spokesperson for Education, and Children and Young People said: “I would like to congratulate Heather Anderson from Kilmarnock Academy and Kirsty Gemmell from The Robert Burns Academy for being selected to represent the Ayrshire Fiddle Orchestra, and East Ayrshire, in London for Burns Day celebrations. What an incredible experience for Heather, Kirsty and the whole group. I know that Allan Dorans, MP visited them in Westminster and let them know how proud he was, and I can only echo these sentiments.”
Tracy Stewart, Head Teacher of The Robert Burns Academy said: “I am so proud of Kirsty, not many people can say they have performed in the Palace of Westminster and 10 Downing Street and she’s done it twice! Kirsty seized this amazing opportunity with both hands and showed just how talented she is. Well done Kirsty, you are a credit to your family, our school and our community.”
David Rose, Head Teacher of Kilmarnock Academy said: “We are all incredibly proud of Heather for being chosen to represent the Ayrshire Fiddle Orchestra in London. She is a very talented musician who has a bright future ahead of her, whatever she chooses to do.”