Pupils from Education Authority music hubs in Ballyclare, Ballymena, Ballymoney and Maghera performed together at the Spring Gala. The event marked the first joint performance by all ensembles since the introduction of EA Music's new hub structure.

The structure includes three hubs in Ballyclare, Ballymoney and Maghera for junior and intermediate pupils with string orchestras and wind bands. Ballymena hosts a fourth hub for senior pupils through the Northern Youth Orchestra.

Each hub held local concerts earlier in the winter. Pupils then gathered for afternoon rehearsals ahead of the evening concert.

Junior String Orchestras played Stars, Dragon Slayer and Banuwa. Wind Bands performed More Cobwell, Bandroom Rock and Espresso.

Intermediate String Orchestras presented Arrival of the Queen of Sheba, Lord of the Dance and The Final Countdown. The Northern Youth Orchestra closed with Hopak from Sorochinsky Fair, The Continental and Fallingwater.

Eve Bremner, Chief Education Officer of the Education Authority, attended the gala. She stated that young musicians performing together shows music's role in education and community building, and highlights dedication supported by teachers and families along with creativity, confidence and teamwork.

Janet Cooke, EA Music Locality Lead, described the gala as an opportunity for pupils from the four locations to form one musical community, with rehearsals creating excitement and achievement in a supportive environment.