This year’s Orchestral Day was a fun, music-filled experience for visiting Year 5 and 6 pupils from primary and prep schools. The special experience day brought together the talented group of young musicians for a day of collaboration and creativity. They were guided through a series of music workshops led by St Mary’s specialist music teachers, enjoyed meeting student music mentors, and ended the day with the debut performance of the One Day Animal Kingdom Orchestra.
To start the day, the pupils were grouped into string, brass, woodwind and percussion sectionals to work through their music. By the afternoon, all the musicians were brought together for a full orchestra rehearsal. For some, this was the first time they had played alongside so many other young musicians.
To begin the first full orchestra rehearsal, the children improvised a jungle-themed composition, using sound effects on their instruments to create different jungle sounds, many of which were suggested by the girls. It encouraged them to play together creatively, and they seemed to really enjoy it.
During breaks, the visiting musicians enjoyed time in St Prisca’s House, home of the Lower School, shared a hearty lunch in the dining room, and had fun getting to know other pupils who shared their love of music.
Parents and supporters then gathered in the Chapel to celebrate what the young musicians had created during the day.
After a warm welcome from Mrs Loveridge, who led the day, the visiting musicians, parents and supporters were treated to solo performances by current St Mary’s Music Scholars – Teyla B (cello) presenting Dance of the Elves by Popper, Jinxi L (piano) performing Caprice op.24 no.3 by Sibeluis and Hannah M (drum kit) energetically drumming Wake Up by Rage Against the Machine, highlighting the diversity of music studied at ST Mary’s.
Then it was time for the main event: the premiere performance of the One Day Animal Kingdom Orchestra. The young musicians, supported by their St Mary’s music mentors, wowed the audience with a lively programme of three pieces: Dormouse Waltz by Stephen Bulla, Wimoweh (The Lion Sleeps Tonight) by Solomon Linda, and the iconic Eye of the Tiger (Theme from Rocky III).
Head of Strings, Mrs Sarah Loveridge, praised the students’ extraordinary effort and dedication, noting that the event perfectly showcased their growing orchestral skills, passion for music and teamwork. She highlighted that music is at the heart of life at St Mary’s, with over two-thirds of pupils learning an instrument or singing weekly, and numerous ensembles nurturing creativity across the school.
The concert not only celebrated the talents of the visiting young musicians but also inspired St Mary’s pupils to continue their musical journey. The audience enjoyed a vibrant, fun-filled programme that blended classical pieces, contemporary favourites and imaginative arrangements, leaving everyone inspired by the joy of music. Thanks to everyone who participated in making our Orchestral Day so special, especially our student music mentors.
St Mary’s Calne invites pupils throughout the year to themed experience days in art, science, musical theatre, dance, lacrosse, tennis and more. Organised by our Admissions Team (admissions@stmaryscalne.org), these days are a wonderful opportunity for pupils interested in a St Mary’s education to get a taste of school life and discover what makes the St Mary’s community so special.
Mrs Sarah Loveridge
Head of Strings
