WELLINGTON PREP SCHOOL ORCHESTRAL DAY

This spectacular event featured pupils from ten schools, who between them fielded over one hundred musicians. It says much for the musical standards at St John’s that out of the nine who took part, six were appointed section principals, including orchestra leader (Gabriel).

Conducted by Hilary Davan Wetton, the players rehearsed in sectionals before combining to work intensely on three pieces: a version of Capriccio Espagnole (Rimsky Korsakov), El Tordo (David Stone) and the irresistible ‘Can-Can’ from Offenbach’s Orpheus in the Underworld.

Much was learned about the requirements and skills of working in a large but closely-knit group, covering watching, listening, tuning, balance and ensemble playing.

The day was a great success.