Ensembles
In addition to providing the highest standard of individual music tuition, Papplewick also boasts an impressive list of ensembles which cater to the many instruments played by our boys. Rehearsals take place on a weekly basis which work toward a variety of performance opportunities available during each term. Ensembles at Papplewick include Chamber Orchestra, Camerata, Scholars’ Ensemble, Brass Band, Junior Strings, Flute Ensemble, Junior Winds, Rock Band, Jazz Collective, Guitar Ensemble and more.
Chamber Orchestra
Our Chamber Orchestra performs at least three times a year and is rehearsed and conducted by Mr Parton. Recently the orchestra has performed a variety of classical hits by composers such as Mussorgsky, Haydn and Fauré whilst it has also been called upon to accompany several chapel choir performances of songs by John Rutter. The Orchestra rehearses on Friday evenings and Tuesday mornings before school and is by audition only. A standard of grade 5+ is required.
Camerata
The Camerata is our Senior String Ensemble. Made up of string players of grade 3 standard and above, this ensemble plays a selection of comprehensive works for string orchestra. The Camerata is directed by Mrs Hannah-Andersson and performs works by Bach, Spata, Vivaldi, Corelli and more. Camerata rehearses during Friday breaktime.
Scholars’ Ensemble
As its name suggests, this ensemble is the cherry on the icing of Papplewick’s musical cake. Set up to provide potential senior school music scholars with the opportunity to perform high quality chamber music together, this ensemble entertains at a wide variety of Papplewick functions. They have recently accompanied the school production of ‘Chitty Chitty Bang Bang’, entertained guests at the Summer Ball, and have performed externally as part of the Music Scholars’ Soirée. Membership of Scholars’ Ensemble is by invitation of the Director of Music.
Brass Band *
Junior Brass is an open ensemble for all brass players at Papplewick to gather experience of playing together with others, and to experience the fun you can have making music together. This ensemble is directed by Miss Ortony and performs an entertaining mixture of light repertoire at informal concerts and the summer concert. Junior Brass rehearse during reading on Tuesdays.
Junior Strings *
Directed by Mrs Hannah-Andersson, Junior Strings is a training ensemble for all budding string players up to grade 3. The ensemble helps string players develop key skills needed for ensemble playing such as listening, counting, intonation and concentration. Performing a selection of well-known classical hits, this ensemble is seen at big concerts and informal recitals. Junior Strings rehearse in the music room at Monday break time.
Junior Winds
Directed by Miss Reed, the Junior Wind Ensemble has performed such classic tunes as Jupiter and the mighty Zippier Zoom! Rehearsing on Tuesdays, Junior Wind Ensemble is the place to catch some good old-fashioned musical mischief and fun. It also allows our wind players to take their first steps into group music making. This ensemble is open to all beginner winds.
Rock Band *
Rock Band is one of Papplewick’s newer ensembles. Directed by Mr Williams, Rock Band provides a safe haven for the next generation of Hendrix’s, Grohl’s and Mercury’s! Major performances include the Contemporary Music Informal Recital and the Summer Concert. All singers, guitarists, drummers and keys players may apply however numbers are limited. Informal auditions may be held. Rehearsal sessions run before school.
Jazz Collective *
Papplewick’s Jazz Collective introduces students to the basics of improvisation as well as the many musical conventions of playing in a chamber group-style jazz ensemble. Learning popular jazz standards is an excellent platform to educate students about functional harmony and compositional structure. This enhances their theoretical knowledge in a fun and practical environment. The ensemble enjoys regular performances at concerts and events held in and out of Papplewick. This ensemble is directed by Mr
Guitar Ensemble *
The Guitar Ensemble gives guitarists an opportunity to gain valuable experience of playing with others that can sometimes be overlooked on the guitar. With Mr Avery at the helm, the ensemble work through a variety classical and contemporary repertoire differentiated for each student.
Chamber Music
Papplewick aims to provide all children with a chance to play with others and encourage boys to explore student lead ensemble making. Scatch ensembles are often created to reflect the needs of our instrumentalists.
(*) Paid Ensemble
