Discover
Young Sounds UK bring Discover training to Aberdeen
We’ve been running our Discover training in England since 2008 and we’re now looking to start the programme in Scotland! Starting with free sessions in Aberdeen.
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The Big Give – Anna’s Story
“As a parent, watching a child’s dream grow is beautiful, but watching someone believe in them the way Young Sounds has, that’s life changing.”
For 14-year-old Anna, music is more than a passion. As her father, Marius, says:
“From the moment she picked up a violin at around the age of seven, something changed in her. Music gave her purpose, joy, and a sense of belonging that I don’t think anything else ever could.
“For the past few years. Anna has been studying at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland (RCS). Every Saturday we travel by car from Aberdeen to Glasgow. That’s over 120 return trips in the past four years. The early mornings, long days and late nights are always worth it. Those are the days she comes alive.”
Her journey hasn’t been easy. Her family has faced financial and emotional challenges and they’ve made many sacrifices to allow Anna to pursue her dream.
Through Young Sounds’ support, Anna has not only been able to attend the RCS, but she’s also accessed opportunities that have transformed her as a musician.
“I felt so honoured to step into Maida Vale where famous musicians had stepped foot into to record albums and make music. I really enjoyed playing alongside the BBC professionals and finding out about the BBC Symphony Orchestra. I had a lovely rehearsal partner. She really inspired and motivated me to work hard and follow my dreams of music. It couldn’t have been any better – it was a super fun and an amazing experience!”
Anna’s dedication has led to a growing list of achievements: she won her Grade 7 violin category at this year’s Glasgow Music Festival and won the Vivaldi Trophy at the Aberdeen & North East Music Festival in 2023. She also plays with the Scottish National Jazz Orchestra and the National Youth Orchestra.
Anna dreams of becoming a professional violinist and composer. She wants to inspire other young musicians, especially those outside the Central Belt of Scotland or who are facing financial and health challenges, to believe in themselves and their dreams. For now, she continues to grow as a musician knowing that she has a community of supporters behind her:
“Young Sounds have given Anna the belief that she belongs in the world of music, no matter where she comes from, or what challenges we face as a family.”
The Big Give Christmas Challenge
If you believe that young musicians like Anna should be given the chance at a musical future, please show your support through the Big Give Christmas Challenge.
From midday on Tuesday 2 December to midday on Tuesday 9 December 2025, any money donated to our appeal will be doubled until we reach our target of £90,000. Let your generosity stretch twice as far this giving season. Thank you!