The Guinness Book of Records confirmed that an orchestra made up of people with a learning disability has broken the Guinness World Record for the largest ever triangle ensemble.
Over 150 musicians led a record-breaking five minute long, 1,521 triangle ensemble at the famous London Palladium. The musicians played a concerto composed specially for the performance by Music Man Project founder, David Stanley, for an event that commemorated the life of late actor, campaigner and Mencap president, Lord Brian Rix.
The orchestra was made up of both performers and audience members, with 1521 people coming together to play a triangle concerto, accompanied by a trumpet and a trombone.
Every musician had been practising for almost a year for the performance; learning how to read music, perform within an orchestra and master the triangle.
Sam Marsh, who has a learning disability and performed within the triangle orchestra, said: “I was so excited to perform again at the London Palladium and to break a world record! I loved singing and playing to all those people. It made me feel so happy.”
The event was co-hosted by learning disability charity Mencap, who aim to support and reduce stigma around people with learning disabilities.
Chief Executive Jan Tregelles said: “This record and the Lord Rix memorial event has proven just how much-untapped talent lies in the learning disability community and the huge impact utilising this creativity could have in the worlds of music, dance and drama.”
David Stanley said: “Breaking a world record was a highlight of an inspirational show which brought together thousands of people to celebrate musicality, diversity and opportunity.”
