Summer Residential Course 2026
WHAT A SUMMER AT SSCOT!
What an incredible week we had at SScOT! Our 2026 Summer Residential Course was a truly unforgettable celebration of music, friendship, creativity and adventure — and we’re still smiling thinking about it! We travelled to Strathallan School in Perthshire followed by the concert in Central Halls, Edinburgh.
This summer, 107 young musicians came together from across Scotland and beyond, creating a vibrant community of young talent, enthusiasm and musical energy.
🎻 67 string players
🎺 40 wind, brass & percussion players
👧 63 girls
👦 44 boys
✨ 25 musicians completely new to SScOT
🏴 21 Local Authorities represented
From the very first rehearsal, the energy was amazing. Our musicians worked incredibly hard, developing their ensemble skills, learning new repertoire and, most importantly, making music together. Rehearsals were interspersed throughout the day with art and sport sessions, giving everyone the chance to be creative, get active, make new friends and have a little fun away from their instruments! 🎨⚽️
And what a week we had for weather! ☀️ Beautiful sunshine made the whole experience even more special, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, relax together and make memories that will last long beyond the final day.
And then came the concert…
WOW. What a concert!
Our young musicians took to the stage and delivered a performance that was full of energy, excitement, colour and musicality. The standard of playing was absolutely remarkable, and hearing 107 musicians performing together was a truly unforgettable experience.
Our theme this year was Into the Unknown — Magic, Mystery & Adventure, and our musicians certainly embraced it! From magical moments and mysterious sounds to thrilling adventures, the concert took our audience on an incredible musical journey.
We couldn’t have been prouder of every single musician. Watching them grow in confidence, support one another, make new friendships and create something so special together is exactly what SScOT is all about.
A huge thank you to our amazing team of conductors, tutors, activity staff, pastoral team and everyone behind the scenes who made the week possible. And, of course, the biggest thank you of all goes to our 107 wonderful young musicians — you made this summer truly unforgettable.
What a week. What a concert. What a group of young people.
SScOT 2026 — Into the Unknown… and what an adventure it was!
