Paul Rissmann

BSO/J.P.Morgan Children's Composer

J.P.Morgan and Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra announced a major new music project in 2008, the creation of the special post of Children’s Composer of the BSO, made possible through funding from the company.

Paul Rissmann, described in the press as a ’communicator extraordinaire’ took up this ground-breaking new post later that year and will work in every primary school in Bournemouth over the next three years.  The project’s aim is for all Bournemouth children in primary education from 2008 – 2011 to work with Paul and BSO musicians to create and perform music. In addition, J.P.Morgan’s support will enable schools’ concerts to be performed in Bournemouth in 2009, 2010 and 2011, presented by Paul and including professional performances of the music created by the children.

The BSO is unique in working with such a composer in residence; specifically working with and for children.  The project is a key part of a wider initiative adopted by government bodies, to encourage orchestras to explore new ways of broadening an orchestra’s reach; enabling young audiences to develop musical ability and connect with this experience.  Ultimately, the project will produce work that can be used to inspire and motivate children of the future. 

The BSO and J.P.Morgan have enjoyed a successful promotional relationship for over twenty years, and all involved are delighted to be working together for the benefit of future generations.

On Monday 15 June a special concert took place at Bournemouth’s Pavilion Theatre Ballroom, performed by 250 primary school children.  Over the last year eight Bournemouth Primary Schools have been working with Paul Rissmann to create a school son, and these were performed to an invited audience of friends and family by each school along with the Mini-BSO.

Paul has also worked with a ninth school this year, St Michael’s C of E Primary, where pupils have worked with him creating musical ideas and words for a new composition that will form the centrepiece of the BSO’s free schools concerts this year.  Paul will now begin the process over again for another eight of Bournemouth's primary schools, and this time next year there will be another set of new songs.

Various teaching aids for the Bournemouth Anthem (including backing track CDs are available through Paul or lhigson@bsorchestra.co.uk ) or download the powerpoint presentation here (11MB, please be patient while the file downloads).