23 June 2026
Shropshire Music Service welcomed the Benedetti Foundation for an inspiring week-long residency, beginning on Monday 15 June 2026, which brought high-quality music-making opportunities to pupils, teachers and young string players across the county.
The residency began with a series of engaging workshops in primary schools around Shropshire, giving pupils the chance to explore music through practical, creative sessions led by the Benedetti team. The Foundation’s Residency Sessions are designed to support young people, instrumentalists and teachers through collaborative music education experiences delivered in partnership with local music services.
As the week continued, Shropshire Music Service instrumental tutors took part in a fantastic INSET session, with a particular focus on string teaching. The session provided professional development, fresh ideas and practical approaches to support tutors in their work with young musicians.
The residency culminated on Friday with the Big String Day, held at Shrewsbury School. More than 50 string students attended the event, working alongside the Benedetti team on two specially composed pieces before ending the day with a performance for parents and families.
The day proved especially memorable for young players, including beginners, who had the opportunity to experience the excitement and confidence that comes from performing as part of a larger ensemble.
One parent said: “We just wanted to express how wonderful it was to see our daughter play in the string ensemble today. We couldn’t believe how confident she looked playing alongside everyone, even though she is only a beginner violinist. She got so much out of the whole experience – she was buzzing when she came home and we could see how proud she was of herself for taking part.
And that was just a week on after performing in Shropshire Sings!
Thank you so much for all that you do to enrich the music education in Shropshire.”
Shropshire Music Service is proud to have worked in partnership with the Benedetti Foundation to bring this valuable residency to the county, supporting pupils, tutors and families while celebrating the power of music to inspire confidence, creativity and connection.
