Members of the British Police Symphony Orchestra (BPSO) together with massed police choirs from across the UK are taking part in a unique fundraising project to say thank you to our 999 heroes.
Working in isolation during lockdown, over 70 other members of the BPSO, the internationally acclaimed classical pianist, Benjamin Frith and 300 performers from massed police choirs, have individually performed and recorded their parts and filmed their own performances of Rick Wakeman’s, “Dance of a Thousand Lights”.
To view the film please click here: https://youtu.be/Lz9jOFCN6bw
The BPSO is no stranger to blue flashing lights, comprising as it does, serving and retired police officers, support and civilian staff, along with the wider police family.
Last year the BPSO filled the Royal Albert Hall with over 7,000 dancing lights as part of the 30th Anniversary Charity Gala Concert. This project is on an even larger scale, with even more blue lights.
Musical Director of the BPSO, Dr Richard Jenkinson said: “This project is an incredible achievement, bringing together as it has hundreds of musicians, drawn from across the UK, all of whom have rehearsed and performed in isolation. The film pays tribute to all who serve in our ambulance, fire and police services, many of whom have pushed themselves to protect and support members of the public, to the point that they are running on adrenaline in this current crisis.
“We joined forces with PC David Rathband’s Blue Lamp Foundation because this year is a very special year for them as they celebrate their 10th Anniversary. We’re asking the public to support this project and to join #Team999 through the purchase of
merchandise or by donating on JustGiving – all proceeds will go to the Foundation so that they can help those injured in the line of duty be that physical or mental and emotional wellbeing injuries.”
The Blue Lamp Foundation provides support for injured fire, police and ambulance personnel. It was set up by the late PC David Rathband, after he was shot and injured on duty with Northumbria Police in 2010.
Peter Sweeney, Chairman of PC David Rathband’s Blue Lamp Foundation, said: “This October, the Foundation will celebrate its 10th Anniversary and its importance to emergency services personnel who have been injured in the line of duty is as crucial today as it was a decade ago.
“We are humbled by the work that has been put in by the BPSO to get this project up and running and their enthusiasm and commitment to supporting #Team999.”
