Britten Sinfonia Inspires Students of Thetford Academy with Outstanding Orchestral Performance

On Friday 3rd November, the East of England’s resident professional orchestra, Britten Sinfonia, visited Thetford Academy for an inspiring performance and songwriting workshop for students across Years 7 to 10.  

Students were treated to live performances from the string orchestra, which included 7 violins, 2 violas, 2 cello and 1 bass. Singing with the orchestra was the international opera star, Elizabeth Watts, who was born and bred in Norfolk. Composers of the songs performed included the likes of Gerald Finzi, Béla Bartók, Peter Warlock, Edvard Grieg and the orchestra’s namesake, Benjamin Britten. The meaning and thoughts behind each song was explained to the students helping them to interpret and experience the words and notes more thoroughly.  

Following the outstanding performances, students were given the opportunity to speak to the musicians directly, posing questions around techniques for remembering songs, how they cue to one another to start a performance, and how long they have been playing a particular instrument.  

A workshop was then held with students and several of the Britten Sinfonia musicians to brainstorm ideas for their own folksongs themed on the local area. The results will culminate in a musical performance at The Carnegie in Thetford next year. Students were inspired by Museum Learning Officer at Ancient House Museum, Melissa Hawker, who gave a brief history of the Thetford, including the strange tale of local legend, Harry Bensley.  

Last month, Britten Sinfonia brought together the musical talents of the students of Thetford Academy and Drake Primary with the fantastic Britten Sinfonia, to create an orchestra. The group included a wide range of instruments and was led by an excellent conductor and professional musicians. 

The musical programme continues next year, as Britten Sinfonia returns to Thetford Academy in January and February, for six more workshops to resume their songwriting. These will be performed by Britten Sinfonia and Bury St Edmunds Friendly Orchestra in a culmination event at The Carnegie in Thetford on Sunday 17th March.  

This project has been made possible thanks to funding by Arts Council England South East.