On Friday 16 October, we were lucky enough to welcome the Barbirolli String Quartet to S. Anselm’s for the afternoon.
After a wonderful salmon lunch which the foursome raved about (thank you kitchen staff), the quartet gave a short recital and question & answer session to all of the pupils from 2nd year up.
They played snippets of Haydn, Britten and Brahms – three pieces they were to play at a concert that evening at Highfields School in Matlock.
They told us about their experiences playing in the Wigmore Hall in London and at the Musikverein in Vienna, and also of playing alongside Take That and Lionel Ritchie! They were also asked how expensive their instruments were!
After the recital, the String Orchestra took part in a masterclass where they were given some expert advice on how to improve their performance of ‘The Theme from Exodus’ and the music they are preparing for the S. Anselm’s ceilidh.
The whole afternoon was enjoyed by all of the pupils, as well as Mrs Dumpleton who directs the String Orchestra, Mrs Lings and Mrs Taylor who play the double bass and cello respectively in the String Orchestra, and Mr Weller, who combined taking photos and playing the piano.
The young quartet were an inspiration to all and I know their work will be of benefit for many years to come.
In the evening, Mr and Mrs Weller took a group of 5 string players to watch the quartet perform one of Haydn's String Quartets in their concert at Highfields School, followed by chips at the Darley Dale Fish Bar!
Posted on
Saturday, October 17, 2009
by JPW