The prevailing objective of Foyle Future Firsts is that through their participation in the programme, young musicians will have developed their musicianship and orchestral performance skills to the level where they can be considered for regular work both on and off the concert platform with the London Philharmonic Orchestra and other leading orchestras and ensembles. A highly competitive open application process takes place each summer. Following auditions each October, the programme commences annually in November. After completing the audition process, successful candidates become closely involved in the daily life of the Orchestra. In addition to taking part in rehearsals and community and education projects, the Foyle Future Firsts form their own performing ensemble. They also receive one-to-one tuition from members of the London Philharmonic Orchestra, help with preparing for auditions and regular mentoring. In the 2008/09 season the Foyle Future Firsts participants will give two performances: Wednesday 29 April 2009, 7.45pm, Purcell Room Stravinsky, Schoenberg and a chamber ensemble transcription of Mahler’s Symphony No 4. Wednesday 27 May 2009, 6.00pm, Royal Festival Hall Free pre-concert event featuring Stravinsky’s The Soldier’s tale Suite and Renard. Funding for this programme has been secured from the Foyle Foundation for the 2008/09 and 2009/2010 seasons. If you are interested in this programme please do not hesitate to contact us to find out in which ways you can support the Foyle Future Firsts. To ensure that cost is not a barrier to participation, none of the students will be asked to pay anything to take part. As the Orchestra does not receive public funding for this or for any of its education projects, we ask for your support to help us make this programme possible this season.