Harnessing the creativity of people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds is at the heart of our approach to new music. Our projects draw on the talents and inspiration of performers, teachers, composers, young people and the wider community in imaginative collaborations that complement the artistic philosophy and programme of the ensemble.

Together with the young composer and animateur Russell Hepplewhite, and in conjunction with the Cambridgeshire Music Hub, we have begun working in schools in the Cambridge area. In June 2012 we worked with the Manor School on a four-day composing project culminating in a concert in Clare College Chapel.

The resulting twelve student compositions were performed together with Actaeon, our 2011 commission from David Matthews (who was present in the audience and spoke to the students) and the premiere of Inchcape Rock by Russell.

We also work with primary school children in conjunction with Operahouse Music Projects (www.operahouse.uk.net). Operahouse was founded to encourage musical creativity among young people and community groups. The organisation collaborates with participants of all ages in creating new and original pieces of music, ranging in scale from sets of songs to hour-long operas.

In autumn 2012 we will be collaborating with Operahouse at the St Andrews Voices Festival and the Sound Festival and University of Aberdeen in two short projects for young people that will culminate in public presentations of their work before performances by Counterpoise.

What the children say:

Q Do you think your composition skills have improved as a result of taking part in the workshop?

A Yes, because we were working with professionals that knew what they were doing. And they helped us a lot. They also helped us understand the language of music.

Q Has the workshop given you greater confidence in composing?

A The workshop has given us greater confidence in composing and being in charge and making music and we have learned to do it better.

Q Did you find working alongside professional musicians intimidating or stimulating and exciting?

A Stimulating and exciting. Having professional musicians to our disposal [sic] was really cool.

Q What was the most interesting and valuable part of the project for you, and why?

A Composing AND performing our own piece. It was a really good experience.