Celebrating Success

Posted by Suffolk County Music Service on 5 February 2026 | Comments

Tags: celebration, success, music, education, schools, concert, suffolk, events, suffolk youth orchestra, suffolk young strings

A former Suffolk County Music Service member has been awarded a prestigious scholarship to study at the Royal Academy of Music, marking a remarkable journey that began with whole‑class music teaching in a Suffolk primary school.

Maddie first engaged with the Music Service in Year 3, aged eight, as part of the whole class teaching programme at Great Barton Primary School. Despite coming from a non‑musical family background, her talent and dedication quickly emerged through the opportunities provided by the county’s music programmes.

She went on to join Suffolk Youth Strings (SYS), where she performed as a soloist in a collaboration with the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment, before progressing to the Suffolk Youth Orchestra (SYO). Maddie later became Leader of SYO, with performances that included the orchestra’s European Tour to Leipzig, Germany, as well as appearances closer to home at Snape Maltings. Her development continued nationally when she joined the National Youth Orchestra.

In Year 8, Maddie secured a place at The Purcell School, where she is now in her final year, studying A Levels before progressing to the Royal Academy of Music.

Staff at Suffolk County Music Service have expressed their pride in Maddie’s achievements. Many remember her well, including Ben Chadwick, Head of Service, who praised her commitment and growth throughout her time with county ensembles.

Maddie’s mum said:

“Thank you for helping my daughter progress and for setting her up for later musical success.”

Adding:

“My daughter wouldn’t be where she is without the Music Service.”

Suffolk County Music Service credits Maddie’s success not only to her individual talent and hard work, but also to the structured progression routes available through county music groups, ensembles and partnerships.

The Service is now exploring ways to share Maddie’s story more widely, including local press coverage and social media, and hopes she may return in the future to inspire current students through rehearsals, performances or workshops with the Suffolk Youth Orchestra.