The exchange between the Warrington Youth Orchestra and Musikschule Hilden (Germany) has been running almost every year for nearly five decades! It is a great opportunity to form lasting friendships and take part in an amazing experience.
The exchange began in 1978, as part of the town twinning arrangements, and each year we alternate which orchestra visits the other. In October 2026, we are looking forward to a visit to Hilden, which will include a joint residential. Further details below.
Hilden is a small town in North West Germany near Düsseldorf. Hilden Musikschule’s symphony orchestra (called Sinfo) is made up of young people and adults.
Both groups of musicians come together for a residential weekend, enjoying music workshops, rehearsals and fun activities. The visitors are then hosted by families of the Orchestra, and have opportunities to experience the local area. The musicians then all come together again to play for the Mayor’s Concert – always a high point of the trip.
We are very proud of our links with Hilden, and our affection for our friends there grows with each visit. This exchange is one of the real highlights of our year. It’s always a wonderful opportunity for the children and a great cultural link for Warrington.
October 2026 plans
WYO is now planning the 2026 exchange to Hilden in Germany. There are many players currently in WYO who have been to Hilden on previous trips (and are wanting to return this year!) who would be very happy to let your player know what it’s all about if you want a first hand account.
We are currently looking for EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST for the trip. Costing is very much dependent on the number of attendees as our greatest outlay is the coach. As with previous trips we will be applying for funding through the UK-German Connection and our costs will also depend on our success or otherwise with this application. Once we have potential numbers we will be able to give you a better idea of cost.
If you have a player/players in Chamber or Symphony aged 12 or above (in October) please email us with the player’s name and date of birth. If you would like more information, please speak to a member of the team on a Saturday morning.