south west camerata

The conceptual ethos of this ensemble “to empower the next generation of performer and teacher, developing the students thinking, listening, and verbalisation skills where students will learn how to coach themselves and other people, developing their own potential and building their confidence” was generated by the overwhelming success of the first Junior Chamber Music course at the Dartington International Summer School 2005. During the project the immediate need for a high quality, unconducted youth chamber orchestra was identified, resulting in the formation of South West Camerata.

The ensemble consists of string players only, and a minimum level of Grade 7, or equivalency in repertoire, is required in order for students to be considered for membership. South West Camerata meets weekly in two rehearsal venues, Ivybridge Community College, and Cullompton Community College. These specially chosen venues offer ease of access to students in the South West, from as far afield as Okehampton and Callington.

Says Rose Hall, a sixteen year-old a member of South West Camerata:

“The ensemble rehearsals are like nothing I’ve been part of before; they’re always stimulating and varied. We are all given the chance to play different parts, as well as solos. Fiona McLean challenges us to listen and comment on how we feel we are working as a group, and what we should do to improve our playing. I’m really excited about the two groups finally playing together in our first concert”

South West Camerata officially launched on 21st January 2006 with an evening concert at the University of Plymouth. Concerts for the ensemble in its inaugural season include a school’s concert at Cullompton Community College on 17th February, a performance at the 2006 Tavistock Festival on 30th April, a performance of the Mozart Requiem in St Andrews Church, Plymouth on 10th May, an invitation to play in Wincanton at the annual Terry Pratchett Hogswatch weekend in 2006, and a joint project with Bexley Chamber Choir, who are touring the South West in 2006.

The creation of South West Camerata has infinite possibilities for building pathways, leading to a lifetime of musical enjoyment, both in a professional life and for leisure.