Everyone and everything has arrived at the Musikverein in Vienna for the start of our European tour with Sir András Schiff. A big shout out to all the talented and patient team that make it happen... it's no small feat to get the Orchestra with all its equipment and instruments across the continent with the current regulations around touring admin and set-up with all the right requirements and sightlines when directing from the keyboard. So much that needs to happen before the on stage magic even begins! After tonight's concert in Vienna, over the next couple of weeks we'll be in Graz, Antwerp, Amsterdam, Munich, Zurich and Hamburg then back to London for the final concert. See www.oae.co.uk/whats-on for all the details. (fb)

As you know we're big fans of orchestras in schools... which is why we're backing the Association of British Orchestras' #AnOrchestraInEverySchool campaign calling on the government to pledge more support for live music making in our schools. Making music connects children to one another and the community around them through creativity. We're proud to call Acland Burghley School in Camden (north London) our home and to be giving the students here that opportunity every day. Here's what Nicholas John, the Headteacher at Acland Burghley, says about the difference that can make: "Having the orchestra as an integral part of the school has been impactful on our students, who are growing and thriving as a result. Thanks to the OAE, our students have access to high quality experiences in music and other areas, and we have seen impact in GCSE music outcomes, student attendance and wellbeing, and increased extra-curricular and career related opportunities for students.” Every child growing up in the UK should have the opportunity to experience the joy of music. That's why the campaign is encouraging parents, guardians and supporters to find out what live music making is happening in schools their children attend or they have an association with. Find out how you can get involved here: https://abo.org.uk/what-we-do/championing/anorchestraineveryschool 📷 Workshop as part of our Musical Connections programme at Acland Burghley School which is dedicated to transforming the lives of hundreds of students with special educational needs and disabilities. Through our collaboration, we help them build confidence, enhance concentration, and improve social skills. In the coming year we aim to run Musical Connections in three London boroughs, Wiltshire, Plymouth and Norfolk as well as at Acland Burghley School. (fb)