Find out more
Last Monday, the College’s Schola Cantorum, along with organ pupils and Lower Sixth composers, enjoyed a visit to Cambridge for workshops and performances held in various spaces around the University. The day began with a tour of the world-famous Chapel of King’s College, led by Prof Jean Michel Massing, followed by three separate workshops for our composers, organists, and choir members. After a short break and an opportunity to explore central Cambridge, the Schola Cantorum joined forces with St John’s Voices – the mixed-voice choir of St John’s College – for a beautiful service of Evensong. This event was attended by many supporters, including parents, staff, and alumni.
Reflecting on their experiences, participants shared their insights, each a testament to the transformative power of music in fostering connection and inspiration.
Lucia C, U6, on the tour of King’s College with Prof Jean Michel Massing:
Upon arriving at King’s College Chapel, we were lucky enough to have a tour with Jean Michel, Professor in Art History. It was fantastic to have him illuminate the building’s intricacies to us: from the magnificent fan vaulted ceiling to the Renaissance Tudor rood screen. A firm favourite was of course, Rubens’ iconic ‘The Adoration of the Magi’, and the eclectic stained-glass windows spanning the length of the chapel, which yielded various Christian and Classical references. We felt very honoured to be afforded such an extensive insight into the building’s rich artistic and religious history, and it proved a real highlight of a very enjoyable day.
Bella C, L6, on the choral workshop at Gonville and Caius College with Jeremy Summerly:
I really enjoyed the choral workshop with Jeremy Summerly, it was so helpful and inspiring to work through some of our pieces, especially with a conductor who works at such a prestigious university. His feedback was so interesting and provided a perspective on the pieces I’d previously not considered. It was such an amazing experience!
Oscar F, U6, on the organ workshop at Pembroke College with Anna Lapwood MBE
The organ students went to Pembroke College for a hugely rewarding workshop with Anna Lapwood. I played the first movement of Trio Sonata 1 by J S Bach and I enjoyed the challenge of playing on the unfamiliar Pembroke organ. We all had an opportunity to work on our pieces and I was encouraged to think about passing the melody between the parts in the trio. It was a very enjoyable session in which we all learnt lots about playing technique and accompanying choirs, and it was a great opportunity to see another part of Cambridge.
Reuben K, L6, on the composition workshop at King’s College with Prof Stephane Crayton
We had the privilege of being involved in a two-hour composition session with Prof Stephane Crayton. We talked about compositional techniques such as isorhythms and delved into topics such as the difference in composing for baroque instruments instead of modern instruments and the concept of bar lines in music. This session also involved listening to music from mid to late 20th century composers such as Berio and Messiaen, examining how compositions have changed throughout time.
Helen C, L6, on the joint evensong at St John’s College with Graham Walker and St John’s Voices
Our day concluded with Evensong at St John’s College, with Graham Walker and the mixed-voice College Choir. We rehearsed all the pieces and introduced ourselves to the university students we were alongside. I enjoyed observing the stunning neo-gothic architecture, and particularly liked the position and façade of the organ. My favourite piece was Bruckner’s ‘Os Justi’, which sounded even more magical when sung with so many singers in a such a beautiful space.
The trip to Cambridge was a memorable journey for the College’s Schola Cantorum, organ pupils, and Lower Sixth composers. From the enlightening tour of King’s College Chapel to the insightful workshops led by respected professionals, each moment highlighted the meaningful role of music.
