J S Bach’s Badinerie from his much-loved Suite No.2 in B minor is on the syllabus for GCSE Music at Park High School in Stanmore; and Head of Music Simon Appleman sought out the Nonesuch Orchestra’s help to bring it to life for his students. We were delighted to oblige! The original piece is scored for flute and strings, but for this workshop, leader Stephanie Waite took the solo part on violin.
It was a lively and enjoyable morning - the first time we have participated in such an innovative class. The students sat in and around the orchestra while Simon coached and questioned them about the many aspects of the music on the exam syllabus. As well as performing the piece complete, the orchestra played excerpts with different styles and techniques to bring out important teaching points.
A great way to experience great music - and an approach we hope to repeat. Good luck to everyone at Park High with the exam!
Great music and great fun going hand in hand