Bryanston welcomed 60 young musicians from 18 schools on Friday 6 November for an inspiring day of music-making in collaboration with its partner conservatoire, Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance.
The event brought together talented string players for a day of specialist tuition, ensemble rehearsals and performances, led by seven distinguished musicians from Trinity Laban.
The morning began with a series of masterclasses, giving pupils the opportunity to work closely with specialist string tutors and develop their technique, musical interpretation and performance skills.
In the afternoon, all 60 musicians rehearsed Benjamin Britten’s Simple Symphony under the inspirational direction of Trinity Laban’s Nic Pendlebury. The day culminated in an impressive concert featuring all four movements of the work which, as Nic pointed out, is far more technically demanding than its deceptively simple title suggests.
The concert also provided a special opportunity for two musicians, violinist Sophie S and cellist Betsy C, who were selected as prize winners at the Bryanston String Competition in January, adjudicated by Nic Pendlebury.
As part of their prizes, both pupils were invited to perform as soloists alongside the professional string musicians from Trinity Laban. Sophie gave a performance of the first movement of Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto in D minor, while Betsy performed Bruch’s Kol Nidrei.
Congratulations to all 60 pupils, whose hard work throughout the day resulted in a concert of an exceptionally high standard.
We are extremely grateful to the following Trinity Laban musicians who shared their expertise and encouragement throughout the day: Matthew Denton, Roman Mints and Greta Papa (violin); Milena Simovic and Nic Pendlebury (viola); Emma Denton (cello); and Chris West (double bass).
The event was another successful example of Bryanston’s ongoing partnership with Trinity Laban.
On Sunday 31 January 2027, Nic Pendlebury will return to Bryanston to adjudicate the string competition. The deadline for entries is Friday 11 December. For more information and to sign up, please click here.
