We at Paraorchestra are devastated to learn that founder member, Lyn Levett, died last week.

A truly unique – and fiercely intelligent – talent, Lyn played a formative role in our development as an orchestra. From collaborating with Coldplay at the London 2012 Paralympics Closing Ceremony to singing the opening verse of our charity single True Colours later that year – she approached everything she did with curiosity, wit and vision.

Lyn’s personality and beliefs also made a profound influence offstage. Our Paraorchestra values today can in large part be attributed to something Lyn said: “We are not disabled musicians; we are musicians with disabilities”. Simple, but profound.

We are deeply proud to have been associated with Lyn, and are thinking of her family, friends and fellow artists at this very difficult time.

A dozen musicians perform in a circle, outdoor, celebratory setting

Paraorchestra and Coldplay perform at the Closing Ceremony of the 2012 Paralympics

You can hear some of Lyn’s work on her website.