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We were delighted to welcome the Multi Story Orchestra to the academy on Wednesday 20 May 2015, where they performed a chamber version of Copland’s ‘Appalachian Spring’.

This rare opportunity allowed pupils to experience an outstanding live ensemble of 14 young musicians creating beautiful music. The  performance lasted 30 minutes, including a Q&A, so the music could be talked about and knowledge expanded. This performance enabled pupils to:

• Develop their listening skills

• Learn about classical music pieces and composers

• Inspire them as up-and-coming young musicians

Multi-Story is a project that takes classical music out of traditional concert venues to unexpected places and gives people a first chance to experience the power of live orchestral music.

Run by composer Kate Whitley and conductor Christopher Stark, it began in 2011 with a performance of Stravinsky’s 'The Rite of Spring' for 100 musicians atop a multi-storey car park in Peckham Rye, London.

The Orchestra’s events have been hailed as part of ‘the most exciting development in classical music for decades, if not centuries’ (The Times), and have attracted audiences of more than 1,500 people. www.multi-story.org.uk

“We as a department are keen to offer our pupils every opportunity and encouragement to develop their creativity. Giving them a wider spectrum of all genres of music facilitates this,” says head of department Jennifer Stewart.

“This performance was about raising the profile of Music even more in the academy as it further enriched our curriculum and gave pupils the chance to experience and be inspired by other young musicians.”