“So, I kind of live a double life,” shared Seb Valentine, an intriguing individual whose everyday responsibilities starkly contrast with his profound passion for music. As a detective sergeant in the Metropolitan Police, Seb’s journey to law enforcement began after a successful career as an opera singer. He initially pursued his love for music at London’s prestigious Royal College of Music, but the challenges of making a sustainable living led him to join the police force in 2011.

In 2015, Seb sought to merge his two worlds and founded the Blue Light Symphony Orchestra, a unique ensemble consisting entirely of emergency service workers, as well as members from the NHS and military. “After spending some time in the police, I felt a strong desire to return to music,” he explained. “I began reaching out to fellow emergency service musicians and was surprised to find many talented individuals. That encouraged me to assemble the orchestra.”

According to Seb, the experience of playing in this orchestra is unlike any other. “There are so many musicians who say it’s a unique environment because everyone shares that common experience of working in emergency services,” he noted.

What started as a modest group of 10 has now evolved into a robust orchestra of 65 members, primarily growing through word of mouth and outreach efforts to different emergency services. He emphasized the importance of creating a welcoming atmosphere where musicians can feel safe and understood. “It’s heartening to see people come together, knowing they will be welcomed for who they are,” he stated.

After transferring to Surrey Police in 2017, Seb continued to expand the orchestra, which is open to blue light workers nationwide. Due to their demanding shift patterns, they can’t meet as frequently as a conventional orchestra, but Seb makes a concerted effort to bring members together when possible. “People genuinely enjoy meeting others from various emergency services. They bond over shared traumatic experiences and, of course, their passion for music,” he said.

Seb also mentioned the significance of creating a space where emergency workers can be themselves. “Many in our line of work often hesitate to disclose what they do socially, so this orchestra allows them to come together, be themselves, and truly relax,” he explained.

The Blue Light Symphony Orchestra is a registered charity focused on enhancing the mental health of emergency service workers through music and music therapy. Recently, they held their second concert at Smith Square Hall in Westminster, timed to coincide with World Mental Health Day. “Our mission revolves around mental health, providing a safe space for individuals to come together and create music for their wellbeing,” Seb emphasized. “Music is a powerful tool for mental health and fosters a sense of belonging.”