St Peter’s Church, Farnborough recently hosted the first Music Scholars’ concert of the year. The church, which dates back to the 1200s, provided the ideal venue for this evening of solo performances. The event featured established second year scholars along with first years performing for the very first time. Anna Baker, horn player said, “My first scholars’ concert was a wonderful experience. It was so great to hear everyone's amazing and diverse playing and the group was so supportive. I had so much fun!”
The enthusiastic audience was treated to an eclectic and vibrant programme performed with real commitment and musicianship. Works ranged from Durante to Salmins and Mozart to Fauré with even a bit of George Formby for good measure! The night included a world premiere from first year composition scholar Harry Linehan-Hill. His work entitled ‘Demeter’, for soprano and piano, was rescored especially for the evening.
Parents, staff and friends were moved by the level of maturity and assurance heard in the pieces on a number of different instruments. The concert opened with second year Bethany Thomas performing the raucous ‘Hoedown’ from Aaron Copland’s ‘Rodeo’. After the concert, Bethany commented, “The concert was absolutely amazing! To be a part of the variety and diversity of styles made it extremely special and I was overwhelmed at the musicality and support from all my peers.”
Oliver Trigg, horn player remarked about the programme, “As a second year, it was encouraging to see such incredible musicians joining the department who will be carrying it forward over the next two years.”
Curriculum Manager, Harry White, commented after the concert, “Tonight was a wonderful start to the year, demonstrating why the College is so proud of its scholarship programme. In partnership with the Royal Academy of Music, Farnborough attracts some of the UK’s finest young musicians due to the opportunity to grow and develop their skills. We are looking forward to seeing how the scholars collaborate and develop musically through the rest of the year.”
