Bournemouth, Culture | Posted on November 26th, 2025 | return to news

Founder of Boscombe orchestra receives award from High Sheriff

Violinist Jack Maguire founded Boscombe Youth Fiddle Orchestra, originally the Coda Fiddle Orchestra in 2004.

Violinist Jack Maguire, the founder of the Boscombe Youth Fiddle Orchestra (BYFO), has been presented with The High Sheriff of Dorset’s Special Award. Originally called the Coda Fiddle Orchestra, Maguire set up the project in 2004 to provide high-quality string education for children and young people who might otherwise not have the chance of experiencing the joy of music making.

Maguire received his award from Callum Bremner, the High Sheriff of Dorset, at a ceremony held at Northwick House in Boscombe on Saturday 22 November. It was attended by Bournemouth’s Mayor Jackie Edwards, the Bournemouth East MP Tom Hayes, supporters of the BYFO and members of the orchestra and their families.

Labour MP Tom Hayes said: “This orchestra has given so many young people confidence, community, and the joy of music, and it was wonderful to see that recognised.”

Before the presentation, the audience was treated to performances from children as young as five-years-old to senior members who have reached Grade 8 standard. This included ‘Spring’ from Vivaldi’s Four Seasons and a Cuban piece where the mayor and High Sheriff joined in with maracas.

Callum Bremner presented the award in recognition of Maguire’s extraordinary dedication to the community. He praised Maguire’s “transformative impact on the lives of countless young people” enabling those from financially disadvantaged backgrounds “to have access to music education, giving them a sense of belonging and the confidence to thrive.” The success of the orchestra is evident from many of the pupils reaching Grade 8 Violin standard and some going on to prestigious music academies such as the famous Yehudi Menuhin School.

Now 75, Maguire, who was formally deputy leader of the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, has stepped back as director of the BYFO, passing the responsibility to his wife, violinist Fiona McKinley. But he is still involved with the orchestra and acts as accompanist, project manager and enthusiastic supporter.

The Bournemouth Youth Fiddle Orchestra patron is world-renowned violinist Nigel Kennedy and it is supported by a number of local groups including the Dorset Children’s Foundation, Bournemouth Rotary, the John Thornton Young Achievers Foundation, JP Morgan and more.