The Gosport and Fareham Youth Orchestra, more commonly known as GFYO, is approaching its 70th birthday in 2025.
Formed in 1955, there are currently around 150 children and young people involved in making music at GFYO.
The GFYO pyramid is composed of a youth orchestra, a concert band, a wind training band, a young strings group, and a ukulele, guitar, and keyboard ensemble.
Jim Potter, who conducts the youth orchestra, said: “We do fantastic work.
“It's good to work with a bunch of very enthusiastic young people and create high quality music in a fun way.
“That's what I enjoy about it the most.”
Anyone under 19 who plays an appropriate instrument is welcome to join one or more of the ensembles in the pyramid.
There is a huge variety of skill in the pyramid, ranging from absolute beginners who can play only five notes to students going on to study at prestigious conservatoires, with some even going on to teach music overseas.
Lucy Laws, who has been playing in the GFYO pyramid for 10 years, was happy to talk about her experiences.
She said: “I love GFYO.
“It’s really exciting, I get to learn new skills like teamwork and playing together and building my confidence.
“It’s fun to make new friends and learn new music.”
GFYO has recently embarked on tours to Belgium and Germany, but they can also be spotted closer to home, such as at their annual Christmas busking at Whiteley Shopping Centre.
Throughout its 70 year history, the GFYO pyramid has offered many opportunities to the young people involved, including the chance to play at venues such as the Royal Albert Hall.
However, the 70th anniversary will be celebrated in the area the orchestras serve, with a concert at the newly opened Fareham Live on March 29.
