Pupils Head Around the World for Music Showcase

RNCM percussionists spent time working with Year 6 pupils at Medlock Primary School on a new piece of music centered on travel.

Sponsored by airline Cathay Pacific for its Life Well Travelled series, the educational project formed of a One Education Music Showcase which saw children from local schools perform three concerts at the RNCM between Tuesday 7 and Thursday 9 July.

Over the course of three days, Medlock pupils learnt about composition, rhythm and performance with RNCM Tutor Andrea Vogler and students Theo Fowler and Alex Smith, before writing their own piece, Around the World, which they performed live at the RNCM. The finished project also included a short specially commissioned piece for solo marimba called Take Flight, written by RNCM student Tom Kelly and performed by Le Yu, the RNCM’s International Tutor in Marimba and an Honorary Associate Artist.

Andrea, who is also managing the project, said: ‘I am delighted to be designing and delivering this exciting project. Creative partnerships like this provide a unique opportunity for pupils to get an insight into the world of classical music, and offer valuable practical training for RNCM students.’

Angus Barclay, Cathay Pacific’s General Manager Europe, said: ‘We are thrilled to support this initiative. Music has the power to inspire and connect people, and that is what we aim to do every day at Cathay Pacific. I am delighted to hear that so many students will benefit from this project and am very much looking forward to hearing the finished piece.’

Suzie Thompson, RNCM Director of Development, added: ‘The RNCM is fortunate to have a partner like Cathay Pacific for this project and we are tremendously grateful to them. They have a genuine commitment to support the arts and education and for the children involved, this project will be something that will stay with them for a long time.’

8 July 2015