The Pamoja Hall was filled with the sounds of Mozart, Tchaikovsky, and more as our classical ensembles performed in this term’s Orchestral Music at Sevenoaks concert. Many of our Sixth Form musicians took on leadership roles within the concert, leading and conducting various ensembles and showing confidence and maturity, as well as outstanding musicianship.
Wind Band opened the evening with three contrasting but equally gripping pieces. The first was ‘Wind Power’, directed by Ms Day, an exciting and percussive piece that made sure the audience were wide awake! This was followed by a march which was composed and conducted by Evan (U6) as part of his Contemporary Music-Maker project. Finally, Mr Palmer stepped in to conduct ‘Secret Valley’ on behalf of Miss Eccleshall. This suspenseful piece showcased every section of the ensemble.
Sevenoaks Strings performed the first three movements of Grieg’s ‘Holberg Suite’ next: the lively ‘Praeludium’, the ‘Sarabande’ – a dance form in triple time with the emphasis often on the second beat – and the ‘Gavotte’, an elegant duple-time dance. These were led by Nathaniel (L6), conducted by Mrs Ashwell and followed by the first movement of Mozart’s Violin Concerto No 4 in D, K218, featuring soloist Mika (L6).
The Chamber Orchestra were then directed by Dennis (L6) and Mika in a performance of another Mozart piece: the Adagio and Fugue in C minor. This piece was expressive and full of contrasting moments.
Closing the first half, a cello ensemble performed Barber’s famous Adagio, which has been used in many feature films such as Platoon, The Elephant Man, and Amélie. It has also appeared in some iconic TV shows which you may not expect: South Park, The Simpsons and How I Met Your Mother, to name a few.
After the interval, the Symphony Orchestra stunned with the first, second and fourth movements of Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No 5 in E minor. Learning three movements was no mean feat, but the orchestra managed them brilliantly, conveying the passion and rich harmonies throughout. The orchestra was led by Eve (U6) and conducted by Mr Dyer. Eve is one of the extremely dedicated and hard-working Upper Sixth pupils who have given much of their time at Sevenoaks to co-curricular music. This was their final orchestral concert and we wish them luck as they move on to what are sure to be bright musical futures.
Orchestral Music at Sevenoaks also marked a significant moment in the musical life of the school: Mr Dyer’s final orchestral concert. During 24 years as Director of Music, his leadership, dedication and passion have guided young performers through years of musical growth, and the evening stood as a tribute to his remarkable contribution to the school.
