A new film aimed at inspiring children through classical music is screening at UK cinemas this week. Ten Pieces, which will be seen by 100,000 children nationwide, features performances by the BBC National Orchestra and Chorus of Wales recorded in an aircraft hangar at RAF St Athan just outside Cardiff.
The orchestra, conducted by Thomas Søndergård, includes recent graduates from RWCMD’s woodwind, brass and percussion departments as well as many of the College’s regular visiting teachers.
Timpanist Christina Slominska, pictured above on the set of Ten Pieces, graduated from RWCMD in 2011. “To be a part of Ten Pieces is amazing, the filming process was so exciting,” she said. “The film is absolutely fantastic and is pitched perfectly for the age group – a number of my younger pupils have watched it and loved it.”
“I’m looking forward to seeing the creative responses to the film. I’m certain judging from the reaction of my pupils that a love of classical music will be instilled from a very young age and they will continue to enjoy music for the rest of their lives. Fantastic idea, fabulous outcome, I’m thrilled to be a part of it!”
Laura Curry, currently in the second year of her postgraduate studies at the College, performed in the chorus for the recording of Zadok the Priest. “We’ve performed with the chorus previously at St David’s Hall and at the Proms at the Royal Albert Hall,” said Laura, “but this was a totally unique location, and it was nice to be part of something aimed at a completely new audience for classical music.”
Emily Wenman also appeared in the chorus. “When we were filming in the aircraft hangar, it was difficult to visualise how it was going to look on film,” said Emily, “but the result looks really great. I’m pleased to have been involved in such a high-profile initiative in classical music education.”
The film is available to watch on BBC iPlayer until the end of October. It is also available free to schools on DVD.
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