Rayburn Tours’ collaboration with Armonico Consort’s AC Academy is reaping dividends. Here they update on a recent concert highlight, and we hear what being an Armonico Consort Senior Scholar means to Angus, and to Rayburn Tours’ Chairman John Boyden and his wife Brenda who sponsor him.
Rayburn Tours writes:
Warwick-based choir and music charity Armonico Consort founded its hugely successful AC Academy based on the belief that music has the power to inspire, connect, and transform young lives. At Rayburn Tours, we believe in these same values, and our ongoing collaboration with the AC Academy programme has allowed us to uphold musical opportunities for children and young people across the UK, helping them grow in confidence and creativity.
A recent highlight of this partnership was their invitation to us to attend a moving performance of Beowulf by the AC Academy Choir at Warwick School. This fantastic event highlights what’s possible when 250 children, mostly from less affluent areas, are given the space to shine. It was a joy to see the excitement on the children’s faces, the pride in their parents’ eyes, and the sense of awe that filled the room.
We were also privileged to meet Roger Medwell MBE DL, President of Armonico Consort, and to celebrate one of the programme’s standout talents, Angus, (pictured, top) whom Rayburn Tours’ Chairman John Boyden, along with his wife Brenda, sponsor as part of our ongoing support for the AC Academy. Angus, who was first awarded a Junior Scholarship, has now been offered a Senior Scholarship in 2025.
“The work which AC Academy undertakes in developing children’s love of vocal music is not just entertainment. Choral singing is a powerful and enjoyable activity, which helps develop strong teamwork and social understanding. The children who participate improve their learning routines and pick up greater cognitive and emotional skills. Those who are recognised with exceptional talent then have the additional opportunity to be nurtured and encouraged to achieve impressive levels of success, often with scholarships won to prestigious universities and music schools. To be a part of this organisation and watch such development is a pleasure and we are delighted to be able to help this work continue with our sponsorship.” John Boyden, Chairman of Rayburn Tours.
Reflecting on his journey so far, Angus shares:
“It felt amazing to know that someone believed in me and picked me to be a Scholar – I feel very appreciated. I’m not sure what opportunities await me with the Senior Scholarship but, so far, I’ve been part of some fantastic performances. This will be my third performance of adaptations of Beowulf and it’s one of my favourites – but I’ve also done some fun performances such as Africa by Toto.” Angus, Armonico Consort Scholar
Furthermore, Rayburn Tours’ school and youth music trips grant young people experiences far beyond what they encounter in their daily lives, sparking lifelong passions and memories. Together, Rayburn Tours and Armonico Consort are committed to making these once-in-a-lifetime musical journeys a reality for every child.
This partnership is a testament to what’s possible when music and opportunity come together.
As Christopher Monks, Artistic Director of Armonico Consort, states:
“Every year almost all Armonico Consort scholars go to top universities, which includes at least one Oxbridge choral scholarship.
Through singing, we advance their level of concentration, focus, attention to detail, teamwork and general musicianship, to the highest level – all of which are vital skills in any working environment.
Our scholarship programme has proven success; taking young people from some of the most deprived backgrounds, where little or no aspiration have been encouraged and shown, to their true potential, and guided them onto successful pathways.” Christopher Monks, Director of Armonico Consort
