Last week, pupils from Westcliff High School for Boys enjoyed a trip to Chelsea's Cadogan Hall to see the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra perform in their series of concerts whilst in residence at one of London's leading and historic music venues, known for its excellent acoustics and luxurious surroundings. After a sunny picnic in Hyde Park, almost thirty students, ranging from Year 7 to the Upper Sixth, were treated to an exceptional evening of classical music, part of the Royal Philharmonic's 2024-2025 season of concerts.

Under the baton of New Zealand conductor Gemma New, the orchestra gave an evocative and at times, explosive performance of Britten's Four Sea Interludes and Borodin's Polovtsian Dances. Our pupils were particularly impressed by the lightning-fast movement of the piano's internal hammers, easily visible from their seats, as Daniel Ciobanu gave a charismatic rendition of Prokofiev's Piano Concerto No. 3. For many, this was the pupils' first experience at a live concert of classical music, and seems likely that they will want to return for the next scheduled Music Department trip in October to see the same orchestra perform Mahler's Symphony No. 1 at the Royal Albert Hall.

With thanks to Mr Derrick, Director of Music, and colleagues for facilitating this wonderful opportunity.