• Explore the Orchestra: a 5-part digital series of free programmes for schools and families
  • Composer James Redwood shares works showcasing each section of the orchestra
  • Interactive concerts feature body percussion, analysis and a newly-commissioned work

 

Each week, from Saturday 24 April, a work showcasing the orchestral family is introduced and performed under the baton of Frank Zielhorst: Brass (Britten’s Sea Interludes: Sunday Morning — Sat 24 April); Wind (Carwithen’s Suffolk Morris — Sat 1 May); Strings (Coleridge-Taylor’s Willow Song — Sat 8 May); and Percussion (Copland’s Appalachian Spring Mvt 7 — Sat 15 May).

During each session the audience will learn a new body percussion pattern inspired by the pieces through a newly-commissioned work: James Redwood’s Explore the Orchestra, which has been written for the series.

Presented in partnership with the University of Exeter, and supported by generous individuals, the series culminates in a performance of the Finale (Sat 22 May) from Redwood’s new orchestral piece, which brings together elements of the four works and a chance for the audience to join in.

Lucy Warren, Head of BSO Participate, said, “The BSO has stayed connected with audiences during the past six months through its livestreamed symphonic performances, and we’re thrilled that its digital pop-up studio has enabled us to develop and launch this series for all ages, inviting even more people to Explore the Orchestra!”

Composer James Redwood said, “There are plenty of ways to get inside the BSO’s music-making, from learning body percussion to meeting each instrument, and I can’t wait to share it with you. I also can’t wait to unveil my new work ‘Explore the Orchestra’, which has been specially written for the series.”

The Orchestra also announced an initiative for GCSE Music pupils last week, with almost 3,500 pupils throughout the South West accessing new performances of set works through an online portal to help their exam studies.


Explore the Orchestra will be available to view on the BSO’s website from Saturday 24 April. Visit bsolive.com to book a free place.

#ExploretheOrchestra

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