Stringfest Repton

An Outstanding Summer School for Young String Players

A Summer School for talented young violin, viola and cello players took place in the Music School from August 10th to 14th. Stringfest Repton proved to be an inspirational week of activities with students coming from across the Midlands. A dedicated team of teachers was led by Graham Oppenheimer, Head of Strings and included a wide range of activities both musical and sporting.

Every student had the opportunity to play chamber music each day and to perform string quartets by Haydn, in the final concert. Students also joined together as a string orchestra to work on music by Bartok, Janacek, Berlioz and Telemann. The result of the final performances was wonderful and far greater than the sum of the parts. Graham commented “It’s so important to have a fun and exciting structure for this type of event. But just as important is the type of music we play together. I wanted to choose repertoire that was different, challenging and interesting for these young players. They had a great educational experience - almost without realising it!”

Other activities included working as a choir on Richard Rodney Bennett Insect World and the opportunity to play solo pieces to each other in an open workshop. Rebecca Rathbone, Leader of Instrumental Development for Derby City and County Music Partnership, led sessions on violin technique (picture 1) and violin maker David Greeley led fascinating sessions on the art of bow and string instrument making (picture 2). Rounders, football, swimming, an end of course barbeque and (most importantly) the grubber completed this action packed week.

Details of Stringfest 2010 will be coming soon. It’s a must for all aspiring young players. For further information contact Repton School Enterprises Ltd on 01283 559322 or email enterprise@repton.org.uk