To bring the concert to a fitting conclusion, Mr Richard Mayo conducted the choir in a rousing rendition of ‘If Ye Love Me’ by Thomas Tallis. Many thanks go to the three Music Departments for organising such a memorable occasion and congratulations go to all the performers involved.
A great range of music has been played in the lunchtime concerts this year, from Classical and Jazz to film music. It has been performed by soloists, choirs and bands consisting of up to 40 members. I have had lots of fun performing in the concerts: playing on the trumpet in Brass Sinfonia, the bassoon in Bassoon Quartet and singing with the Chapel Choir. While in these concerts I have heard concertos being performed flawlessly, as well as incredible renditions of solo works. The concerts have given me an amazing opportunity to listen to other musicians and perform to an audience, which I think has boosted my confidence in performing in front of other people as well as my quality of playing. They also provide a great opportunity for people who haven’t performed before, especially in the groups that don’t normally get opportunities to play in the larger concerts. They have had a massive impact on my playing since I arrived at the College.
LUNCHT I ME CONCERTS
T oby Spence, a world-renowned tenor who has sung frequently with the English National Opera as just a part of a very varied career, came to the Old Library in December to give the senior boys of the Chapel Choir a master class, with the choristers, parents and music staff as an audience. I was one of the participants. Mr Spence’s ability to divine my personality through only hearing me sing was astonishing, and the clarity of his instructions made it very easy to sing better during the session. Already I have noticed a marked improvement in my voice, just by remembering the techniques he recommended to me. It was a great opportunity to have one-on-one help from such a fine musician and a thoroughly enjoyable experience.
V I S I T OF TOBY SPENCE
Mentor for ABRSM, gave helpful and constructive advice throughout the competition, commenting especially on the high level of preparation and teaching. Beginner to Grade Six classes were held in the Old Library, after which we moved to the Great Hall for the Advanced Classes. The Graeme Jenkins (OA) Cup was awarded to James Orford for a mature and exciting account of the 1st movement of Grieg’s ‘Piano Sonatain E Minor’. Congratulations to everyone who took part in this enjoyable and exciting celebration of pianistic talent.
Y et again there was a bumper entry for the Piano Competition, now in its 18th year, with 72 boys taking part. The standard ranged from beginner to Diploma level and 1st and 2nd prizes were awarded for each class. The adjudicator, Helen Deakin, Examiner and
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