Yesterday we had inspiring music making sessions in the morning, an afternoon at the sunny beach in Bournemouth and a super fun and energetic Ceilidh, to finish off the evening in true Ingenium style.

 

 

During the morning, the orchestra worked on listening skills to unify their sound and work together better as an ensemble. The first half of the rehearsal involved playing along to a steady drumbeat to work on timing, whilst the second half included moving seats to sit next to a different instrument to hear how their own part related to the whole piece. We also welcomed Peter Sparks for clarinet lessons (London Symphony Orchestra) and Miranda Allen (Royal Philharmonic Orchestra) for violin lessons.

 

 

After the break, our three young trumpet players took turns rehearsing different movements of Haydn's trumpet concerto with the orchestra. It was an incredible opportunity for them to play one of the greatest repertoire pieces for trumpet with a full orchestra.

Our singers continued their rehearsals focusing on sound production and the different approach to jazz singing. They finished the morning on a high, with a mash-up that Adam put together of all the pieces that they had learned so far including Row Me Bully Boys Row and Mountain Thyme.

 

Meanwhile, the saxophones spent a highly educational morning learning about reeds and mouthpieces, led by visiting specialist Richard Smedley from D’Addario woodwind manufacturers. They all tried different combinations of both to try and create the best sound to suit their instrument and embouchure.

 

 

At lunch it was time to board the coaches with the destination – Seaside! Once we got there the students enjoyed a packed lunch in the park followed by some free time to explore the town of Bournemouth. After some sightseeing and shopping it was time to hit the beach and experience the chilly English Channel for a swim. We had the full package of a true British seaside experience with beach football, ice-cream and the traditional fish and chips. We were very lucky with the weather and had glorious sunshine all afternoon!

 

 

Once we were back in Winchester it was time for more fun - we were joined by the Fiddle Paradiddle ceilidh band that led us in a joyous and energetic evening of traditional Scottish dancing.  The students were very keen to throw themselves into the Scottish spirit and learn all the dances! It was the perfect end to a fun day out, and well-earned relaxation after a few days' hard work rehearsing.

 

 

Musician of the Day

 

 

Orchestral

Jack and Sarah, aka 'Team Horn': for being super prepared with sorting out all their transpositions, for working as team and playing with a lovely sound and confidence.

 

Pianist

Sarah: for always trying really hard to memorize all her repertoire even though that pushes her out of her comfort zone. For setting herself a target to achieve during the course, and for having the best mindset and skillset to achieve this goal by the end of the 4 weeks.

 

Singer

Olivier: for singing with a lovely sound and confidence and being an asset to the bass section.

 

Well done everyone!

 

 

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