Santosh decided to take up the Violin in addition to his Piano at the age of 7. This was a big decision for him at the time. He was inspired to be part of a string orchestra when he saw the SFE Birmingham string ensemble play at a concert. We, as parents, weren't sure he would be able to manage both instruments at such a young age.

However, Santosh, who worked and practised with single minded determination, soon found he had a natural aptitude for the instrument and thoroughly enjoyed his music. He wanted to give his grade 1 exams within 6 months of picking up the instrument. Both his teacher and us were a bit apprehensive, but Santosh was very confident that he would do well.

He practised regularly and with commendable self motivation. He was successful in his grade 1 exams and passed with a distinction!

He has since auditioned for, and been accepted, to play in the Services For Education Junior strings ensemble, which for him is a dream come true!!

What Satosh says about doing his Trinity exam

Going into the exam there was definitely some pressure as this was my first violin grade. Helpfully, I felt my whole family was behind me. My teacher was helping me with my scales and pieces . I put effort into my practise by regularly practising for an hour. The process took a few weeks due to my lessons being once a week, but I was used to this because of my Piano Grade 1 a few months ago. Gradually, my pieces kept getting better and better. I didn't take this as a sign that I could stop practising. My practise increased in intensity every day, pushing myself harder. In a month or so, I was confident that I could take my last recording soon. Finally, I did my best recording and submitted it.

I then auditioned for the junior strings orchestra conducted by the Services for Education in Birmingham. Again, I was quite nervous but managed to do it and actually had a lot of fun at the open rehearsal. I was overjoyed when we got the message that I has been accepted. It was a dream come true and an amazing reward for all the work I had put in!