Bingley teenager joins the National Youth Orchestra

Violinist James Uttley, 14, from Bingley, is one of only 158 youngsters to be selected to play in the prestigious orchestra.

Violinist James Uttley, 14, has been selected to play in the National Youth Orchestra. (Image: UGC)

“It’s quite an adrenaline rush,” said James, after finding out he had been selected.

“It’s exciting and special to be part of a highly-skilled team of musicians.”

James, a pupil at Beckfoot School in Bingley, has been playing the violin for eight years and said that it was his first study instrument.

“I love the violin, but I’m also quite fond of playing the piano.”

Violinist James Uttley, 14, has been selected to play in the National Youth Orchestra. (Image: UGC)

Playing music is in his family, as his dad, Mark Uttley, is a musician and taught James from a young age.

“When I was younger, my dad used to practice and he started teaching me.

“At eight years old, I joined the Bradford Youth Orchestra for two years and I played at weddings when I was eight. My dad and I have also played at the Holocaust Memorial in Bradford.”

James Uttley, left, plays alongside his dad, Mark, and brother, John. (Image: UGC)

When the Covid pandemic hit and the country was in lockdown, James did not stop playing.

“During lockdown, my dad and I played driveway concerts on our street.

“We invited people to watch us from distance.

James Uttley and his dad, Mark, played driveway concerts on their street in Bingley during lockdown. (Image: UGC)

“It was a nice community event that came at a time when we were trapped in our houses."

His dad, Mark Uttley, said: “I think the National Youth Orchestra is very unique to be a part of – playing elite music with elite musicians.

“I did it when I was a child, and it was the best thing to happen in my life.

“Only good things can come from it. He will make friends for life.

“It’s a fantastic organisation and they will get to play at some well-known concert halls.”

James added: “I am one of only 158 musicians across the entire country who has been selected to play in our national team, and I am delighted to be representing Bingley this year.

“We will come together through our love of music, our commitment and talents in a cutting-edge orchestra that speaks to our generation.

“Every musician in the orchestra, including myself, also plays a role in encouraging, supporting and championing our peers.”

In 2024, the orchestra will perform in three concert tours across the country.

The National Youth Orchestra’s first concert will be held at Barbican Hall in London at 7pm tomorrow (Thursday, January 4).