RNCM Saxophonists on the Road to Strasbourg
Twenty RNCM saxophone students are preparing to take part in the 2015 World Saxophone Congress next month following their fantastic Road to Strasbourg fundraising campaign.
Collectively known as the RNCM Saxophone Orchestra, the students were presented with the challenge of raising funds last September, and since then have been busy ensuring the exciting trip was possible.
Third year saxophonist Hannah Fry said: ‘We’ve done everything, from busking at the Manchester Christmas Markets to performing a number of public concerts and even baking saxophone-themed cakes. With the World Saxophone Congress now only a few days away, the last details of the tour have been finalised and the Orchestra is officially set for its visit to Strasbourg.’
Presented every three years, the World Saxophone Congress, held between 9 – 14 July, brings together over 1000 saxophonists from around the world for five days of performances that showcase the instrument at its very best. Having the opportunity to travel to the event will enable the students to develop their individual skills and work together as one of the UK’s most vibrant and up-and-coming ensembles.
‘There is also a chance to support RNCM alumni in their own artistic projects,’ said Hannah. ‘This year these include Erin Royer (in collaboration with composition student Lucy Armstrong), Jennifer Watson, Andy Scott, and Rob Buckland. And we will be taking part in a ground-breaking concert to celebrate World Saxophone Day which will be live-streamed and simulcast alongside other similar events worldwide.’
Prior to departure the Orchestra will present two pre-tour concerts, held jointly with the Queensland Conservatorium Saxophone Orchestra, which visits the College in the week before the Congress. The first takes place on Thursday 2 July at 7.30pm at Coronation Hall, Ulverston, and the second is held in Sandbach on Sunday 5 July at 4pm as part of Andy Scott’s annual Saxophone Weekend. For more information on either of these performances, or on the live World Saxophone Day broadcast, please email [email protected]
The RNCM is recognised as the UK’s leading institution for saxophone study. Led by world-renowned saxophonists Rob Buckland and Andy Scott, the department is home to a cohort of creative, motivated students and encourages original thinking and high-standard playing across a huge variety of different genres.
The Saxophone Orchestra would like to thank everyone who has given their time, support and energy to ensuring the Road to Strasbourg was possible, including Teresa Scholtz, Diana Kealey Edwards and the Friends of the Martyn Edwards Jazz Bursary, and James Heyworth.
26 June 2015
