Pupils from Dean Close Preparatory School recently welcomed KORG, a Japanese organisation that specialises in synthesizers for the music and film industry, into school to run a workshop.
The morning started with the KORG team, Luke Edwards, Adam Whittle and Andy Pullen demonstrating the capabilities of some of their keyboards. During assembly, they recreated cinematic soundtracks from Batman, Marvel and Superman whilst clips from these well-known films were shown. Pupils then split into smaller groups to participate in a fascinating workshop.
The team showed the children all the different effects and sounds the synthesizers could create, from all the instruments in the orchestra to recording and sampling. Pupils were then asked to create their own composition, which demonstrator Luke took away to edit and they will be returned to them in a few weeks.
KORG supply synthesizers to individuals and organisations around the world, including The Voice, X Factor and leading radio stations. Luke has demonstrated their keyboards to Gary Barlow, Queen, Michael Jackson and a host of other musical celebrities.
Ayomide, a pupil at Dean Close, commented: “I am not a very confident musician and never thought I would be able to compose anything from scratch. The synthesizers help me create a piece of music I am really proud of. I based my piece on one of my favourite films, I cannot wait to hear the edited version.”
Adam from KORG explained: “The children were really engaged, they listened well and made some great music. There are definitely some talented score writers amongst them.”
The following day parents were also invited to try their hand at music making.