Rolls-Royce backing hits right note with orchestra

Engineering giant Rolls-Royce has reaffirmed its commitment to Sinfonia Viva by agreeing to back the orchestra for the next three years.

The company has worked in partnership with the orchestra for more than 25 years and its financial support has funded a wide range of projects.

These have included annual education residencies in Derby that have brought Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) subjects to life through creative song writing and music compositions.

At the same time, Derby City Council has also confirmed funding for the orchestra for the next 12 months to the tune of £10,000, which will support its community, education and concert-giving programme in the city.

Lucy Galliard, chief executive of Sinfonia Viva, said: “We are grateful for the continued support of both Rolls-Royce and Derby City Council who have been committed partners and strong advocates for our work over many years.

“Rolls-Royce has worked with the orchestra since 1995 and the relationship has grown from simple sponsorship to a thriving partnership.

“It is rare to have such a long-term arts and business relationship and is testament both to the company’s commitment to arts and education in the city and our innovative approach to creative work with young people, which has earned us national acclaim.

“We look forward to working with Rolls-Royce to further develop the breadth of work we do whether that is performing on stage, working creatively with young people or using music to bring science and technology to life in new ways.”

Gill Fennell, Rolls-Royce’ community investment manager, said: “Our partnership with Sinfonia Viva has evolved over the years to make sure that our collaboration remains relevant for both organisations, our city and, particularly, the young people we’re working with.

“Together, we’ve enriched students’ learning in core subjects, such as maths and science, through music-making.

“Our own people have had learning opportunities too, working with Viva’s team on community-based projects, bringing very different experience and expertise together to create something innovative and wonderful.

“We’re delighted to be continuing this successful partnership, we look forward to exploring how we can contribute to the cultural landscape in Derby and beyond and encourage young people to be creative as they explore STEM in imaginative ways.”