Mathew Smith, British-born, 11-year-old is at the center of many conversations, especially for the orchestra enthusiasts. On the April 2^nd, he will make history by becoming the world’s youngest orchestra conductor. He will be conducting the Nottingham-Symphony Orchestra at the Royal Concert Hall.

He understands, unequivocally the challenges that come with the role. It’s not an easy one. The Daily Mail quotes him as saying, “There are some most difficult parts where the music gets faster.” Nevertheless, he affirms his prowess of years and nights of practice. “I have been practicing a lot and can now undertake the whole piece from memory, and I’m enthusiastic to put my skills to the trial and conduct a real orchestra.” Such statements only send a clear message: expect nothing but the best!

Exceedingly impressive is that parts of his of performance will be featured in NSOs Animal Magic show. Such a great talent does not come on a silver platter. At least according to Neil Bennison, the music program manager of Royal Concert Hall. He notes that successful conductors must be team players, show real leadership and much more. These skills he says take time to develop and require a certain level of maturity over years of experience.