Addict musicians to join LSO for TV symphony performance

15 July 2014, 15:35

10 classical musicians recovering from addictions are to be the subject of a new Channel 4 documentary called 'Addicts' Symphony' that sees them perform a specially-composed work with the London Symphony Orchestra.

The documentary will centre on composer and musician James McConnell, a recovering alcoholic who also lost his 18-year-old son to a heroin addiction in 2011.

McConnell said in a press release: "'Addicts’ Symphony' is one of those rare programmes which is not only entertaining and informative, but which has done some real, long-term good."

"For all the participants it was a fascinating experience, but for some it has been truly life-changing. For me, watching a group of people brave enough to address their addictions and fear - through music - was both humbling and inspirational."

Gallery: classical music against the odds

The other musicians in the documentary will all be followed in the documentary as they prepare for the climactic LSO concert. They include an award-winning cellist whose career was derailed by drink and drug habits.

'Addicts' Symphony' is due to air on Channel 4 in August.