I was a terrible teen; I couldn’t focus on anything long enough to attain any level of proficiency, unless you count devising ways of not being at school or chasing girls.

Whilst photographing the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain (NYO) over the past couple of years I have come to question my squandered youth even more as I am constantly left in awe at the talent it’s members. Hours of practice in bedrooms up and down the country converge to build what I can only describe as one of the most inspiring things I have ever had the opportunity to shoot.

Having great access to rehearsals allows me to crawl between double bases and enthusiastic 14 year olds hitting drums so hard that you can feel it in your bones. In photographic terms it’s a bit of a gift; combining the grandeur of classical music with the burgeoning individuality of youth. The moments are fleeting, often just a look during a break when the teenagers switch off from being serious musicians and give themselves away. Then there are the times of exuberance; I remember being wedged into a tiny dressing room at the national theatre with an entire trumpet section playing some Farrell Williams just before a gig, the sound was massive.

I will be continuing my work with the Orchestra NYO this Christmas during their rehearsals and at their performance in The Barbican on Sunday 4th January 2015. Tickets are available here.