Old Brentwood David Cox secures coveted EUYO place

Old Brentwood David Cox has been awarded a coveted place in the European Union Youth Orchestra – a staggering achievement considering his age and the number of musicians selected from the UK.

The EUYO brings together the most talented young musicians, up to the age of 26, picked from all 28 EU member states. David, a trombonist, will join the EUYO on this summer’s tour of the major European concert halls.

Twenty-year-old David said: “In such a divided world in which we currently live, the chance to make music with some of the best musicians in Europe in one single orchestra is such a wonderful thing, and I am privileged and honoured to be part of such an organisation for this summer.”

During his time at Brentwood School, David was involved in the plethora of School bands, orchestras and ensembles, and for two years, was a member of the National Youth Orchestra.

He left Brentwood in 2016 to take up a scholarship at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London. During his studies, he has undertaken an Erasmus Exchange study period of half a year at the Royal College of Music in Stockholm, Sweden, with funding from the EU.

“I graduate from Guildhall in 2020, after which I plan to further study in Europe, in particular Germany, with the aim of playing in a professional orchestra. I now wish I had paid better attention in my German lessons at school!” he joked.

He has played with various ensembles within Guildhall, such as the Symphony Orchestra, the UBU contemporary music ensemble, Big Band and Opera Orchestra. He has also played with various orchestras in London and Essex.

“I cannot remember when I first found out about the European Union Youth Orchestra, but it had certainly been an ambition of mine to gain entrance to the orchestra whilst being a student,” he explained.

The EUYO summer tour - which includes a rehearsal/training period in the beautiful town of Grafenegg, Austria – will see performances across Europe including Berlin, Amsterdam, Hamburg, Vienna and Bolzano.

“I have a few friends from the UK who are in the orchestra this year, which makes it even more special, he added. “I feel incredibly fortunate to have studied at Brentwood School where the Music Department is such a lively place and full of passion and good humour.

“The department gave me my grounds and foundations for a love of music and helped me pursue my ambitions, firstly under Mr Pickthall, and when in the Sixth Form under Mrs Khoo, Mr Cooper and Mr Stock, and, who could forget Mr Rumsey, without whom I would not be where I am today. I look back at my time at Brentwood School with very fond memories.”