A brass ensemble with a world-wide reputation for innovative programming and outstanding performances is returning to Barthol Chapel this week by popular demand after a year’s absence to hold workshops for children and a concert in Barthol Chapel Kirk as part of their residency at the University of Aberdeen. Their residency is generously supported by the George Craig Group.
J Douglas Craig, managing director of George Craig Group Limited, said: “Craig Group is delighted to be involved with the University in supporting this musical residency, which stimulates musical appreciation in the area, particularly with young people.”
The Wallace Collection was founded by Fife-born virtuoso trumpet player John Wallace to explore and perform the extensive brass repertory, and is scheduled this year to tour the UK, Argentina, Spain, Ukraine and Ireland.
It will begin its short residency on Friday, February 11th with a workshop for primary school children at Barthol Chapel School, where the youngsters will have the opportunity to learn more about the skills needed to perform with a world-class ensemble. Children interested in music from Tarves, Methlick, Cairnorrie and Pitmedden schools are also invited to this special event.
John Wallace, founder of the Wallace Collection, said: “We at Wallace Collection can’t wait to get back to Barthol Chapel where last time we played for some of the friendliest and most open children in the country.”
Mackie Bruce, Headmaster of Barthol Chapel School said “It is a great privilege for Barthol Chapel to host the Wallace Collection, and a tremendous opportunity for primary school children to hear the work of musicians of international standing. Last year we had 100 pupils in our school, which is a two-teacher school, and the Wallace Collection had the children spellbound. We are looking forward very much to their visit this year.”
The workshop will be followed that evening by a special concert in the Barthol Chapel at 7:00 pm, followed by a Stovies Supper at the school. The programme will include Scottish dances from the Renaissance and music by Handel, Grainger, Prokofiev, Shostakovich, and recently discovered pieces by Bellon. Tickets are £5.00 and are available by calling Barthol Chapel School on (01651) 806227 or (01651) 806334.
Other events during the weekend will include a workshop for brass players, both amateur and professional, on Saturday, February 12th at the Mitchell Hall at Marischal College in Aberdeen from 2-5 pm. Places, costing £2.50, can be booked in advance by phoning University Music on (01224) 272571.
The Wallace Collection will make contributions to the University of Aberdeen’s Founder’s Day Service in the King’s College Chapel on Sunday morning, February 13th, at 11 am and will finish the day with the main
event of their residency, a concert at 7.45 pm in St. Machar Cathedral.
The concert will be performed in association with UDI Band, one of the oldest musical associations in Aberdeen, to celebrate their 150th anniversary. The audience will be treated to little known brass pieces by Sibelius, music from the 1600’s by Gabrieli, medieval Scottish dances, and the first performance in the last 150 years of music by Bellon. Tickets for the concert cost £6 from the Aberdeen Box Office on Union Street (Telephone 641122).
The events have been organised by the University of Aberdeen Music.