On Wednesday 31^st January, our Year 10 GCSE Music students attended a fascinating workshop given by musicians of the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra with composer and presenter, Patrick Bailey.

The first session focused on the set works from the main GCSE exam boards, which included the 'Clarinet Concerto, 3^rd Movement', by Mozart which our students study in Year 11. The piece was performed beautifully.

Students also learnt about the Baroque Concerto Grosso (Brandenburg Concerto NO. 5, by J.S. Bach) and the Minimalist Music of Steve Riech through an absorbing performance of 'Clapping Music' which will enhance their learning of the GCSE Music Areas of Study.

The latter part of the session focused on composition with excellent relatable examples and advice, brilliantly played by the musicians. This included a worked example of music from the video game 'Little Orpheus', as well as a composition made from creative ideas by GCSE students.

It was a real treat to experience such high quality music making and guidance through such an invaluable session. Many thanks for Gloucestershire Music for arranging the session and we are very much looking forward to the repeat next year.