Purcell School showcases composer collaboration with twin projects

A new documentary shines a light on a brace of innovative compositional projects working with the likes of Judith Weir and Errollyn Wallen.

SCRAWL has been written by composer Alison Cox (above) and 60 other writers

Thursday, 21 November 2024

The Purcell School, the UK's oldest specialist music school, has announced the release of 'Purcell — A 60 Year Celebration', a new documentary showcasing two innovative musical projects.

These have been developed by the school's Composition Department and have been directed and produced by Thea Cole, co-founder of StartPoint TV.

SCRAWL and simultaneoUS

The film is now available on YouTube and highlights the 'SCRAWL' and 'simultaneoUS' projects which demonstrate the school's commitment to fostering artistic collaboration, innovation and inclusivity among young composers.

SCRAWL is a 10-minute composition described as 'musical graffiti'. Written by The Purcell School's Head of Composition, Alison Cox (above), in collaboration with 60 alumni composers, the piece is performed by a 60-strong orchestra of students from the School's 2023 Symphony Orchestra.

'simultaneoUS' was composed by BBC Young Composer winner and alumna Maddy Chassar-Hesketh.

It is built upon musical fragments contributed by 100 school children as well as prominent figures such as Judith Weir, Errollyn Wallen, Joseph Phibbs and Caroline Shaw.

The work highlights the potential of music to bring people together across generations and backgrounds.

To enjoy

To enjoy go to: https://youtu.be/Zsygjy1jb6Q

Become a supporter and help make our future secure.

4barsrest continues to be a proudly independent voice. There are no paywalls to overcome to be able to enjoy what we do to keep our journalism at the heart of the brass banding world. Support us with a one-off donation or subscribe from just £2.50 per month.

Support us