Concert Reviews

Second Orchestra visit to Edinburgh, August 2005

In mid-August 2005 the Second Orchestra assembled in Bedford for a few days of rehearsal before heading north to Scotland to play concerts in both Edinburgh and Glasgow, as part of the National Festival of Youth Orchestras. The 2005 trip was the thirteenth time that the orchestra had made this journey.

The visit to Edinburgh by the County Second Orchestra has become something of a tradition (even an institution!!). It all began in 1981 when the orchestra went for the first time to the, then, new National Association of Youth Orchestras (NAYO) 'Festival of British Youth Orchestras'. This first concert was conducted by Richard McNicol. It was such a success that 2 years later a second trip was arranged, this time conducted by Ian Smith. Again the trip was enjoyed by all, so much so that a regular booking is now made every 2 years. The next visit will be in August 2007. However, 2005 was Ian’s last trip as the orchestra’s conductor as he has now laid down his baton to concentrate on other interests. Bedfordshire County Second Orchestra has the distinction of being the only Second Orchestra to play at the festival!

Second Orchestra
Photo courtesy of Harry Adam, a member of the Danesborough Chorus

Why do we go? Mainly because it such a wonderful educational experience playing at the Youth Orchestra Festival and having the opportunity to experience Edinburgh during Festival time, but also because it draws the orchestra together and everyone plays better as a result, and we enjoy it!

Michael Tippett’s Suite for the birthday of Prince Charles was the Orchestra’s entry this year for the Festival of Youth Orchestras competition at the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama in Glasgow on 23rd August 2005.

The biannual visit to Edinburgh has become such an 'institution' for the Second Orchestra that members sometimes stay in the orchestra just to experience an Edinburgh trip. Others come back as 'guests' to help out (providing they do not prevent current members of the orchestra from attending), and some members of the orchestra even manage 2 trips (and occasionally 3!) before they are promoted to the Youth Orchestra!

Why do the staff go again and again? The staff enjoy seeing the students benefit from the experience and, themselves, enjoy Edinburgh at Festival time.

Undoubtedly it is one of the experiences that many students will remember for many years to come!