Notes from a small charity: Kate Barry, LMM Assistant (LMM Internship Programme) reports back

Posted by Kate Barry, LMM Assistant on 21 April 2010 | 0 Comments

Tags: LMM Awards, LMM, Bridge Project, Kate Barry, LMM Internship Programme, Lambeth, Agata Szymczewska

When I read the advertised vacancy for the position of intern with LMM, I applied immediately. The opportunity looked too good to miss, and the most attractive thing about it was the dual nature of the organisation. The side which deals with recognising and advancing the careers of professional violinists, LMM Awards, excited me as someone who has learned the violin, and the educational programme within the charity, the Bridge Project, appealed to me due to my strong interest in education and my experience working in primary schools in the past.

After a very relaxed interview, in which I was made feel at ease and so could openly discuss my musical interests, one of my biggest hopes for the internship was that I would have the opportunity to be involved in both branches of the LMM project. After four weeks in the organisation, this wish has been fulfilled, and I have been lucky enough to attend two events which have given me a valuable insight into the workings of the charity. The first was on the morning of my first day, in March, at Jessop primary school in Lambeth. Here, some of the children were showcasing their recently acquired violin abilities at a morning assembly, with their LMM teachers in tow. It was a real privilege to witness, not only how much the pupils have mastered, but how enthusiastic they were about their progress and the lack of nerves they displayed while performing. The second occasion afforded to me to observe the fruits of this still very young charity, was the wonderful recital given by one of the LMM award holders, Agata Szymczewska, in April of this year. The talent and dedication displayed at this performance served to intensify my motivation and commitment to the work LMM does. It was also wonderful to be surrounded by so many guests who so obviously had empathy and admiration for the project.

In between these two events, I have gained some valuable experience researching and documenting not only LMM’s work, but also the rich classical music life of London and the workings of musical performance competitions worldwide. I have also been given the opportunity to make contributions to discussions regarding future Bridge Project events, including the festival which will take place at Jessop primary school on 9 July this year. This is hopefully the first of what will become an annual affair, and the idea is currently very much in its formative stages. I am eager to watch, and contribute to, the development of what will ultimately prove a rewarding event for children, parents, LMM staff, and the Lambeth community as a whole.