Foyle Future Firsts

Our annual Foyle Future Firsts programme bridges the transition between education and the professional platform for outstanding early-career orchestral musicians.

The programme is designed to nurture and develop talented orchestral players, forming the base for future appointments to the London Philharmonic Orchestra and other world-class orchestras and ensembles.

What’s involved?

During your year as a Foyle Future First, you’ll have the opportunity to:

  • play alongside the professionals in London Philharmonic Orchestra rehearsals
  • hone your technique through lessons with an LPO Principal player
  • benefit from invaluable advice and mentoring from your LPO Principal
  • perfect your audition skills
  • watch LPO rehearsals and experience the behind-the-scenes preparation
  • develop your creative leadership skills alongside LPO players on Education & Community projects
  • play side-by-side with LPO members in chamber performances at the Royal Festival Hall, and in our annual Debut Sounds concert featuring new works our LPO Young Composers
  • enjoy free or discounted tickets for all LPO concerts at the Royal Festival Hall

How do I apply?

Applications for 2026/27 will open in Spring 2026.


Find out more about the Foyle Future First programme:

Foyle Future Firsts 2025/26

We are working with the following talented musicians during the 2025/26 season:

  • Mio Takahashi – violin
  • Emily Trubshaw – violin
  • Sara Ramirez Rodriguez – viola
  • William Lui – cello
  • Isabel Garcia – double bass
  • Billy Hui – flute
  • Noah Rudd – oboe
  • Emily Crook – clarinet
  • Florence Plane – bassoon
  • Nivanthi Karunaratne – horn
  • Katie Bannister – trumpet
  • Ollie Plant – trombone
  • Archie McVicar – tuba
  • Mark Zang – piano
  • Aisha Palmer – harp
  • Julie Scheuren – percussion

Instrument Chairs are kindly supported by David Burke & Valerie Graham (Clarinet), Michelle Crowe Hernandez (Tuba), John & Sam Dawson (Percussion), Marie Power (Piano), Judy Wrightson & Tony Llewellyn (Violin).

What our Foyle Future Firsts say:

I felt welcome and valued, it was a perfect environment to learn and thrive. I thoroughly enjoy the year and every moment in the FFF programme!

Foyle Future First 2022/23

It’s given me a huge foothold in this industry and really helped me to become a confident orchestral musician.

Foyle Future First 2021/22

It’s really given me an insight of what it’s like to have a job in an orchestra which is an invaluable experience. I’ve loved the way that the LPO players value the Future Firsts and how welcoming they’ve been.

Foyle Future First 2021/22

Contact us

If you have any questions please contact Lowri Thomas, Education & Community Project Manager on 020 7840 4203 or [email protected]

Email us:

[email protected]

Get in touch to discuss supporting a Foyle Future First Chair. Contact:

Rosie Morden - Individual Giving Manager

[email protected]

020 7840 4212

The Foyle Future Firsts Development Programme 2025/26 is generously supported by the Foyle Foundation with additional support from Scops Arts Trust, Idlewild Trust and individual chair supporters.

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