The Royal Hospital School is holding a singing workshop for 10-12 year olds with Assistant Musical Director of The National Youth Choirs of Great Britain and new Head of Singing at the Royal Hospital School, Dominic Peckham, entitled ‘Great Britten’ and supporting Aldeburgh Music’s Friday Afternoons project.
Friday Afternoons is the name given to a set of 12 songs composed by Benjamin Britten between 1933 and 1935. The simple songs, with witty piano accompaniments, are dedicated to Britten’s schoolmaster brother, Robert, and the boys of Clive House preparatory school, Prestatyn – a school in which choir practice and singing lessons regularly took place on a Friday afternoon. Based on this set of songs, and forming part of Aldeburgh Music’s Britten Centenary programme and the worldwide Britten 100 celebrations, Aldeburgh Music has conceived this year-long project to highlight the composer’s legacy of work for young people and to encourage more singing in schools. It culminates on Friday 22 November 2013 – Benjamin Britten’s birthday, when tens of thousands of people from across the UK will join together to sing the songs. For more information go to www.fridayafternoonsmusic.co.uk
The ‘Great Britten’ workshop with Dominic Peckham takes place this Saturday 9 November at the Royal Hospital School. 300 Year 5 and 6 pupils from RHS and local schools throughout Suffolk and Essex will be gathering for an energy-filled, fun-packed vocal day directed by the ‘Jamie Oliver of Singing’, Dominic Peckham.
Director of Music at the Royal Hospital School, William Saunders, said
Dominic is regarded as one of the UK’s finest young conductors and an ambassador of choral music in performance and his critically acclaimed educational work. He has held a number of posts within the musical world and has worked with a huge variety of people. We are delighted that he will be bringing this experience and knowledge to RHS and the wider community. From crazy Lady Gaga ‘mash-ups’ to the unique sounds of Benjamin Britten and his celebrated songs for young voices, this event promises to be an unforgettable experience for all involved.
The Royal Hospital School is a coeducational boarding and day school for 700 11 to 12 year olds set in 200 acres of Suffolk countryside overlooking the River Stour. The School is also holding an Open Morning from 9am on Saturday 9 November for prospective parents and pupils. Admissions 01473 326136 or admissions@royalhospitalschool.org