After assembling in the hall at 9am, the students, from years 10 to year 14, arranged themselves into a large string ensemble, tuned their instruments and rehearsed two chosen pieces with Ms Dunne, namely ‘Happy’ by Pharel Williams and the theme from Jurassic Park. The ensemble worked for an hour before they had a break after which they were joined by their tutor for the day, violinist Danny McCann Williams, from the Ulster Orchestra.
He gave the ensemble a fantastic overview of the music, talking about and advising on technique, phrasing and how the instrument should ‘sing’ The group worked very hard, listened intently, and really made an effort to work together. Danny’s easy, yet authoritative manner ensured the success of the workshop. The students relaxed, felt at ease. And produced some great sounds.
After lunch the ensemble performed the two pieces and Danny reminded them of the main points he had covered earlier. The ensemble sounded really good and everyone was pleased. For some of the students it was a completely new experience to play together in such a large ensemble.
Danny then delivered two masterclasses, the first to violinist Solenn Besson, and the second to Yolys Brannigan, a year 14 student. Danny really encouraged them both with their violin solos and helped with posture, breathing, hand position and demonstrated technique. Most notable was how keenly the rest of the students listened and concentrated on what Danny was demonstrating. He had very good, constructive contact with all the students.
The day finished with a group photograph and the students left at 3.15pm, in time to catch their buses.
The teachers, tutors and I felt it was a very worthwhile, successful day for all concerned.
We were delighted with Danny’s tutoring skills, enthusiasm and his natural connection with the pupils. The staff said they’d be keen to take part again maybe in 2027, if the workshop were offered and we feel we have made a positive relationship with the tutor which, hopefully, we can build upon for the future.
