Category: Music
The orchestral concert on December 4th opened with the delicate and playful sounds of Dvorak's Slavonic dance Op 46. The contrasting colours of this delightful nationalistic score were beautifully tailored. The players seemed to enjoy the contrasts of the tight rhythmic sections and the more lyrical, indulgent melodies. The first movement of Mozart's Symphony no. 29 displayed the more intimate, chamber style of this early work. The strings produced a wonderfully full and mature sound, with solid support from the oboes and horns. The chamber orchestra then continued with a string arrangement of Eleanor Rigby. There was no doubt that the players were enjoying this spirited arrangement, with animated pizzicato passages contrasting with the richer and more lyrical sections.
The second half of the concert included two major works, which demanded enormous virtuosity and control from many individuals. Mendelssohn's Hebrides Overture aims to display the magical qualities of Fingal's Cave, with its huge rock pillars and crashing waves. The score explores moments of real subtlety but also torrents of stormy passion. Both were managed admirably, with some excellent solo moments from the woodwind players.
Jupiter, the 4th movement from Holst's Planet Suite, was the highlight of the evening. Rarely have I heard a school orchestra play with such vitality and passion. Every section of the orchestra has its moment here and every single player seemed to reach the mark. The changes in colour and mood, which can create enormous difficulty for conductor and players alike, were all managed with apparent ease. An enormous success, which must have created moments of hidden pride in every parent present!
Mrs C Toomer
Deputy Head of Music