Keyboard Festival Day

31 March 2017

On Thursday 9 March, Stowe held the annual Keyboard Festival Day. Below is a review from one of the attendees from The Grove Independent School:

"Six pupils from Year 3, 4 and 5 at The Grove Independent School were invited to the Stowe Keyboard Festival Day. We had been practicing very hard on two pieces called ‘Chopsticks’ and ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’. They were arranged by Mr Ben Andrew, the Head of Keyboard at Stowe.

We started the day with a tour around the Music School and listened to a recording of one of the Stoic’s songs that she had created. At the piano ensemble rehearsal, we played along with two other schools. There were 21 pianists and seven pianos on the stage and three of us sat together on each piano and played our own parts.

Afterwards we had an organ demonstration in the Chapel and then heard Ben2 play, (a band made up of two teachers at Stowe). It was an exceptional performance and I was amazed by both of them. Mr Andrew then held a masterclass where he gave us helpful information on our own pieces.

After our final rehearsal, there was a mini concert and we were so excited. It started with some solos. I was very lucky to have an opportunity to play my favourite piece, Nocturne Op.9 No.2 by Chopin on the Steinway piano. Then all performers came onto the stage and played the two pieces. It was such a dynamic sound and we all played brilliantly.

I would like to thank Stowe school, particularly Mr Andrew for holding this wonderful keyboard event. We all hope to come back again!"

Emily Garwood, The Grove Independent School