A DETERMINED violinist has seen his hard work rewarded with a spot in a prestigious national orchestra.
Staindrop Academy pupil William Rolt was accepted onto the National Schools Symphony Orchestra (NSSO) earlier this month for his talents on the violin.
The 16-year-old, from Hutton Magna, started playing aged eight but it’s only in the last 18 months that he knuckled down and committed to four hours practice a day.
Robert Allfree, from the Durham Music Service, has taught William for four years and paid tribute to his commitment.
Mr Allfree said: “It’s testament to all his hard work – he is very self-motivated and does a lot by himself alongside lessons wherever we can do them.
“I’m very proud of him – it shows what can be done with consistent work and determination.”
Young musicians are offered individual coaching by expert tutors at the NSSO – playing in small ensembles before progressing through sectional and full rehearsals ahead of a final concert at a major national venue to caps off the yearx.
The precocious violinist has more than one string to his bow, playing the piano and the euphonium to a grade five standard.
But it’s the violin where William’s talents have flourished most.
He said: “The violin is a very nice instrument and I wouldn’t say it’s the hardest to play either.
“It’s a labour of love – the toughest thing is playing the difficult parts correctly.”
The talented teen has his grade eight violin exam on the horizon – years ahead of where most others take the test.
Mr Allfree added: “He came to me about six or 12 months ago and said ‘I want to do my grade eight’.
“It’s important because he’s only 16 and to do grade eight at that age is a very good achievement as most people are looking at that in year 12 or year 13. The NSSO carries on until age 18 or 19 so he’ll have a good couple of years there at least.”
