On Wednesday 22 January, the Music Scholars of Eton performed at St George’s Church, Hanover Square in London.
The recital showcased the diverse range of chamber music and solo playing that’s encouraged in Eton’s Music Schools. Included in the programme were pieces by Beethoven, Schubert, Weber, Shostakovich, Niehaus, and Liszt.
In addition to a wide variety of composers, the concert also featured many instruments: piano, violin, viola, and cello. Wind instruments were not neglected, with one clarinet performance and a saxophone quartet’s rendition of When the Saints Go Marching In.
The boys were thrilled to play in such a beautiful venue, especially as the 300 audience members, made up of parents and supporters of the College, were so “receptive and warm”.
A big part of the night’s success was due to the staff such as Eton’s Development and Engagement team who organised the event. Head of Strings & Chamber Music at Eton College, Leandro Silvera, oversaw the concert, and Jennie-Helen Moston (Head of Piano) coached the boys and provided accompaniment for the soloists.
BBC Young Musician and Canadian Chopin Piano winner Ryan Wang concluded the recital with a performance of Liszt’s Réminiscences de Don Juan S.418. His solo was the perfect end to a wonderful evening of music.
“The boys absolutely loved the event,” Silvera said. “There was a real buzz on the coach back to Eton.
“It was certainly a very special occasion, but the success of it left us all looking forward to the next one!”