Over the weekend, two Music students had the opportunity to work with professional and student performers on their composition pieces.
A Level student Lucy and GCSE student Rhiannon heard their performances realised by a mix of professional (Mr Mark Butler, violinist of the Academy of St Martin-in-the-Fields, Mrs Elaine Patience our own violin and viola teacher, Ms Vivien Easom, our singing teacher, and Mr Nikolay Ginov on cello) and student performers (Lucy and Rhiannon worked together to sing Rhiannon’s composition; Tia of Chislehurst School for Girls, and Cobham hall students Elena and Ella on cello).
One important aspect of composition is the relationship between the composer and performer: this is essential for ensuring markings are accurate and not liable to misinterpretation and ensuring that the music is within the capabilities of the performers. The professional string players gave our students a great deal of practical advice about giving clear instructions and bowing practicalities. Mr Green supplied the unfortunately missing double bass part in Lucy’s composition, and the piano part of Rhiannon’s piece.
The Music Department, Lucy and Rhiannon send their thanks to all who took part.