“Ferdinand the Bull” and other stories: a Family Show by London Mozart Players
Saturday 27 Oct, 2018, 2pm | St Alkmund’s Church, Shrewsbury
Shropshire Music Trust, always keen to introduce children to classical music, invited the string trio from London Mozart Players to perform a 40 minute concert for 2-10 year olds before their evening concert.
At 2pm, St Alkmund’s Church was full with young families, buggies and babies. Kneelers became cushions and all eyes were fixed on the expressive and exciting playing of violinist Ruth Rogers as she brought matadors to life in the tale of Ferdinand the Bull who would rather smell flowers than perform in the bull ring. The second story, also narrated by cellist Sebastian Comberti concerned a classic fairytale complete with handsome princes, selfish sisters, witches and - a magic violin.
The trio, completed by Megan Cassidy on viola wove the enchanted tale round a medley of favourite classical pieces, from Saint Saens to Massenet and more.
Lots of families stayed on and were joined by others invited to watch the beginning of the rehearsal by the full orchestra too, playing with the outstanding young Turkish charasmatic cello soloist Jamal Aliyev (pictured below). It was altogether an excellent combo of a special event for young people, followed by an appropriate experience of the larger group, which also became a taster for the evening...
“Harry (6) and Flo (3)
next to me, sat entranced,
eyes shining”
“more events like this,
please” Kate
Written by Katriona Wade 29/10/18
