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We are excited for you to join Britten Sinfonia on Monday 2nd October for our Strings and Symphonic Winds Inspiration Day, in partnership with Essex Music Hub and Orchestras Live.

You will have the opportunity to meet professional musicians from Britten Sinfonia, ask them questions and even perform alongside them in a special concert for friends and family at the end of the day.

Pupils from Essex Music Hub with Britten Sinfonia musicians in February 2023

Introduction

If you are a woodwind or brass player, you will be joining our players and conductor, Tess Jackson at Chelmsford County High School for Girls. If you are a string player, you will be joining our musicians and conductor Frank Zielhorst at King Edward VI Grammar School. 

The day will begin with sectionals led by Britten Sinfonia musicians where you will have some focused time with people playing the same instrument as you. We encourage you to be inquisitive and ask questions and if there's anything in the music you are struggling with, we can try to help by simplifying it!  

Following this, you will be taken to Tutti rehearsals - The word Tutti is Italian and translates as 'together' or 'for everyone'. These rehearsals will be led by a conductor and Britten Sinfonia musicians will be playing alongside you. 

At the end of the day, string players will move across to Chelmsford County High School for Girls. Britten Sinfonia will perform some chamber or small group pieces and then we're going to perform the music you have been working on to friends and family. 

It's all about the Music

Playing in an orchestra with professional musicians can feel nerve-wracking to begin with but we promise it's not as scary as it seems and even our musicians get nervous!

We have worked with some of our favourite composers and arrangers to provide parts which are appropriate for all levels. 

Let's take a look and a listen to what you will be playing... 

String Orchestra

Mendelssohn String Symphony No 3 - Andante - 3' -  Listen here

Roderick Williams Hello, hello? Can you hear me? - 3' - Listen here

Jeff Moore Fiddler's Hill - 12' - Listen here 

“Roderick Williams is a baritone and composer who sang at the King's Coronation in May 2023 and he's arranged this piece especially for you to perform.”

Symphonic Wind Orchestra 

Fergal Carroll Song of Lir - 6' - Listen here

Jeff Moor Dancing Folk - 4' - Listen here

We would advise that you look at all parts and select the one most suited towards your ability. Don't be afraid to be bold and try something challenging - We'll support you every step of the way! 


If you have any questions, please contact Ollie Colquhoun who will ask the relevant member of Britten Sinfonia staff if necessary.