The BBC Concert Orchestra has returned to Nottingham for a week-long residency with the University of Nottingham and Nottingham Trent University (NTU). The visit will conclude with the premiere and professional recording of new orchestral film works created by students from both institutions,
Now in its third year, the partnership brings together NTU students from film, animation, design, and media with music students from the University of Nottingham. The music students compose original orchestral scores inspired by films made by their NTU peers. Musicians from the BBC Concert Orchestra perform the works, led by internationally acclaimed conductor Ben Palmer.
Nottingham: A City of Rebels
This year’s theme, Nottingham: A City of Rebels, prompted bold and imaginative responses. Students explored resilience, identity, and personal discovery through music and film.
A professional recording session took place at the Djanogly Theatre at Lakeside Arts. Members of the BBC Concert Orchestra recorded the student compositions during the session. NTU students gained hands-on experience in a professional orchestral recording environment. This opportunity gave them valuable insight into industry practice.
Dr László Rózsa, Director of Performance in the University of Nottingham’s Department of Music, said the project creates a strong dialogue between disciplines and institutions. He explained that it helps students develop distinctive artistic voices. He also noted the value of working directly with professional musicians at the highest level.
The residency concluded with a public concert at Lakeside Arts on 15 May. The concert featured the first live performance and screening of 11 new collaborative works. In 2026, the project introduced a new strand with student presenters. Participants from both universities trained to host performances and strengthened their professional skills.
Amy Bere, Director of Culture at NTU, described the collaboration as a transformative opportunity. She said it encourages students to push creative boundaries. BBC Concert Orchestra Director Matthew Swann described the residency as one of the ensemble’s most inspiring partnerships. He highlighted its role in supporting the next generation of creative talent.
The residency forms part of the Universities for Nottingham partnership with the BBC Concert Orchestra. It supports creative talent development. It also contributes to cultural life, wellbeing, and opportunity across Nottingham and Nottinghamshire.