Some 130 music novices took the stage at London’s Barbican recently to play a symphony in the space of 90 minutes as part of the showcase for a new corporate teambuilding initiative.

The challenge, called Orchestrate, conceptualised by teambuilding pioneers Catalyst, was billed as a world first in corporate training. “It’s a unique exercise that uses the symphony orchestra as a metaphor for the workplace, allowing non-musicians access to real instruments, a conductor and an especially composed piece of music,” said the organisers. “Orchestrate reflects the idea of going beyond perceived limitations.”

Sound thinking: Teambuilding that's in tune with delegates

Both events industry association Eventia members and Catalyst clients immersed themselves in a challenge that seemed unrealistic at the outset, but resulted in a full performance on the world famous stage of the Barbican Hall, home to the London Symphony Orchestra. The evening provided an opportunity for buyers and organisers to network, experience Orchestrate first hand and learn a little more about the iconic venue.

After the initial briefing by the conductor, participants were split into instrument ‘sectionals’ and trained in a variety of the breakout areas available. The finale performance was described as “electrifying” with many people genuinely surprising themselves at finding hidden talents.

“The evening was an overwhelming success with the team behind Orchestrate fully demonstrating its application as a powerful tool to engage delegates and bring inspirational company values to life,” said Eventia’s executive director Izania Downie.