MUSIC NOTES - from Phoenix Review 66-67 [published September 1967]

Three concertos, or concerto movements, chamber music, violin, cello and organ solos, songs, orchestral pieces and jazz numbers - these items surely proved that we had a very varied programme to offer to those who were kind enough to patronise our concert last March. But I find it depressing that so few pupils are willing to support our efforts by their presence in the audience. As an example, I doubt whether more than five out of my own form of thirty-three came to the concert.

As far as the orchestra is concerned we are finding it difficult to survive owing to a shortage of violinists, and unless reinforcements arrive in the near future the outlook is gloomy. We shall come to depend more and more on the generosity of past pupils. Now that we have several instrumental instructors it may be possible to find time to extend the choral side of our activities if support is forthcoming.

We are losing several musicians in July - Lorna Knight whose skill as a flautist will be much missed, Edward Fisk (principal horn) who has been a very great help in running the orchestra, Richard Wakeman (piano and clarinet), Morag Ferguson (principal violin) who has been with us for only one year. Peter Kendall (flute), Alan Squirrel (oboe), and Ian Cole (trumpet). All these are sixth-formers and such a large clear-out is a severe blow. In addition, Stephanie Byford (violin) is leaving as she is moving to Scotland. Add to all this the loss of Mr. Thompson at Christmas and it will be seen that our lot is not a happy one. Instrumental beginners, please note that the future is in your hands.

Although it is early to decide what we shall rehearse seriously during the coming season, we shall be making a start with Schubert’s Symphony No 3, Bizet’s Jeusx d'enfants and Sullivan’s overture to Pirates of Penzance. A Mozart divertimento for wind instruments is also a probable choice.

Our very grateful thanks are offered to Dr. Muir, Miss Bracken, Mr. Curtis and Mr. Westbrook for their really valuable help in the orchestra, and we hope to add Mr. Farrow’s name (apprentice ‘cellist) in the next issue of the magazine.

W. Herrera