On October 2, Mrs Brown took a group of orchestral players to Downe House for their “A Day at the Movies” Orchestral Fun Day. Nearly 250 pupils came together from schools near and far to rehearse en masse, in sectionals, and then perform together. Music included pieces from well known films including, Frozen; Wallace & Grommit; Dambusters and Aladdin.
Study girls joined children from 14 different prep schools at the Downe House Music Department’s 10th Annual Orchestral Fun Day, one of the biggest Preparatory school orchestral events in the country. All pupils worked together during a busy day of creativity and learning with staff from the Music Department, joined by some of the Downe House girls and teachers, who joined in to play their own instruments and to provide support for the prep school students.
The day was a full one and the children worked hard to become a cohesive group, forming a Symphony orchestra, a Strings section and a Concert band. The culmination of the day was a concert in the Farr Centre, at which the students played a full programme to an enthusiastic audience.
Study String players Jenny Yang and Phoebe Bucknall said:
“Our favourite piece to play was Stand by Me. In between each practice we had a break, sometimes with doughnuts! It was a fabulous and amazing day – we are much better at sight reading now! We would really like to go again!”
Amy Jo Brown, Director of Music at The Study commented:
“This was a unique and special day for our musical girls, and not only did they learn new techniques, but also had great fun working together and then performing and showcasing their skills. I am very proud of all our girls that took part, and thank Downe House for such a splendid opportunity.”
Dr Charlotte Exon, Director of Music at Downe House commented:
“We were delighted to welcome so many talented young musicians to form the Downe House Prep Schools Film Symphony Orchestra, an exclusive orchestral extravaganza! They worked together so well and excelled themselves in the concert which concluded the fantastic day of music and fun!”
