The Music Department was delighted to host a vocal masterclass with Andrew Hamilton on Sunday 8th February.
The afternoon opened with a short recital by Andrew and myself, where he displayed his rich, sonorous baritone voice and musical intelligence. He has a magical way of engaging his audience with the narrative behind each piece. The choice of repertoire was also perfect – moving from the sadness of Flanders Field and Youth and Love, through humour and love in Wolf and Schubert before a showstopping Largo al Factotum.
The pupils were immediately involved and ready for his words of wisdom. Paddy C enjoyed seeking more depth in the text, whilst displaying his stunning lyrical voice ; Aurelia S explored using a more relaxed breath flow in the enduringly popular Pie Jesu ; Jon S had great fun adding a bitter twist to The Vagabond ; Millie A entertained with her hugely characterful Johnny ; Josh T pursued a little more swashbuckling colours in Sea Fever ; and finally Bo G leaped into the operatic repertoire and transformed into a post-pubescent 14 year old boy, who is confused by the wonders of love in Non so piu!
All were put through their paces in a delightfully positive way, with reference to the text, diction, breathing and colour of delivery – a rich mix of ideas for them to play with. The audience seemed to enjoy watching ‘work in progress’ and we look forward to his return in the near future.
Clare Toomer
Head of Keyboard
