Junior Trinity student Ayla O’Brien has been selected as a London Philharmonic Orchestra (LPO) Junior Artist for the 2026/27 season. The 16-year-old flautist is one of just eight young musicians selected for the prestigious programme.
LPO Young Artists is a year-long programme which provides orchestral experience to talented young musicians from backgrounds that are under-represented in professional UK orchestras. Ayla will benefit from a range of opportunities including one-to-one instrumental sessions with a player mentor from the LPO, ensemble performance opportunities and behind-the-scenes work experience with the LPO team.
Ayla, who lives in Kent, is currently studying A-levels in Music, English and Spanish. She joined the junior department at Trinity Laban four years ago, and studies both flute and piano. Ayla plays flute and piccolo in Junior Trinity’s Symphony Orchestra, Wind Orchestra and Composers’ Ensemble and is also a member of the Kent-based Lydian Orchestra.
Junior Trinity is Trinity Laban’s Saturday music department for young people aged 3-19, nurturing a lifelong interest in music and supporting students to develop their skills and potential.
Ayla said: “I’m thrilled to be joining the LPO this year as a Junior Artist. For a young flautist to learn and play alongside a professional orchestra is a dream come true.”
We’re proud to see young people from Trinity Laban succeeding at all stages of their career. Ayla’s appointment demonstrates not only her own hard work and dedication, but also the talent, commitment and enthusiasm across the Junior Trinity community.