Diamond Academy Pupils Inspired by Live Orchestral Performance

On Friday 3rd November, the East of England’s resident professional orchestra, Britten Sinfonia, visited Diamond Academy for an inspiring performance and songwriting workshop for pupils across Years 3 to 6.  

Pupils were treated to live performances from international opera star Elizabeth Watts, who was born and bred in Norfolk, and the strings of the orchestra, which included 7 violins, 2 violas, 2 cellos, and 1 bass.  

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 behind each song was explained to the pupils, and the pupils were given the opportunity to tell the musicians how the songs made them feel.  

Following the performances, a workshop was held with pupils 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.  

The musical programme continues next year, as Britten Sinfonia returns to Diamond 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 from Arts Council England South East.