Welcoming Sally to London: A Week of Musical Immersion

2 Jun

From 22 to 28 April 2026, we were delighted to welcome Sally, a student from Paris, to London for a cultural immersion with the LMF team. Sally, a violinist who began her musical journey with Démos, a Paris-based social outreach programme focused on orchestral training, had the opportunity to explore London’s musical scene and the many professions within it, made possible thanks to funds raised at the inaugural Fondation de France UK Gala.

Sally first discovered music through Démos in 2012 and now performs with the Orchestre Démos Philharmonie de Paris, one of three advanced ensembles supported by the Philharmonie de Paris, which she has remained deeply connected to since she began. As Gilles Delebarre, Deputy Director of the Démos project, explains:

“After 16 years of the Démos project, a number of young people have developed the ambition to go very far in their musical practice, even considering careers in the cultural sector. We are delighted that the London Music Fund has welcomed one of these musicians who, beyond career considerations, is an ambassador for our European successes in overcoming social barriers. They are also advocates for the importance of the arts in supporting the personal development of future generations.”

During her week in London, Sally took part in a rich programme that included professional meetings, cultural visits, and hands-on involvement in preparing for our 15th anniversary concert.

Exploring London’s cultural life

With guidance from the team and Fondation de France UK, Sally experienced a varied and inspiring cultural programme. During her stay, she visited the House of Lords, where she met Veronica Wadley CBE (Baroness Fleet) and co-founder of LMF. She also attended a performance by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra at the Southbank Centre, explored the Royal College of Music and its instrument museum, and visited St Paul’s Cathedral.

Sally spent a day at the Yehudi Menuhin School, founded by the eponymous violinist and conductor, where she attended the school’s Founder's Day concert. Reflecting on the experience, she said:

“It was just beautiful. The programme was demanding but very well performed. It’s special to see so many talented young people.”

Supporting a major musical event

Alongside these visits and meetings, Sally played an active role in preparing for our 15th anniversary concert at Smith Square Hall. She contributed to a range of tasks, including scheduling, organising scores and preparing event documentation. She also attended and observed the rehearsal the day before the concert, and even took part musically in one of the programme’s pieces.

On 27 April, the concert provided a fitting conclusion to Sally’s visit. After helping with set-up, Sally worked behind the scenes, gaining insight into the production side of a major performance. As she reflected:

“It was really interesting to see how things work for those who aren’t performing on stage.”

She later returned to the stage to perform Palladio, conducted by its composer, Karl Jenkins.

“I loved playing in a new place. It was the first time I had performed outside France. I also really appreciated being conducted by the composer of the piece we were playing,” she said. Sally returned home with a head full of memories, new experiences, and connections:

“I am very pleased to have met so many people from different backgrounds and roles. All these encounters showed me the wide range of opportunities within the music world. I had an excellent week thanks to the warm welcome and support from the teams at the London Music Fund and Fondation de France UK. It was a pleasure to meet and work with such kind, passionate and dedicated people. We share a common passion – music – and a strong commitment to making it accessible to everyone.”

We were delighted to welcome Sally and to be part of such a meaningful exchange. Sally’s enthusiasm and engagement enriched the week for the whole team, and her words are a wonderful reminder of the impact that connection, inclusivity and a shared love of music can have. We are very grateful for her visit and hope our paths will cross again in the future.

Read the original article published in French on the Démos website here.