15 years of music in aid of National Trust

For many pupils, parents and National Trust supporters, the beginning of the Festive Season is heralded by the Exeter School Concert in aid of the National Trust in Exeter Cathedral. 

For the fifteenth year running, the concert showcases the school's senior orchestral groups, brass and choirs in the magnificent Cathedral setting.

This year, highlights within the programme promise to be performances of Sibelius' impressive 'Finlandia' by the Symphony Orchestra, whilst the more intimate Chamber Orchestra will play excerpts from Warlock's 'Capriol Suite'. 

Two of Britten's beautiful choral works will be performed:  'Hymn to the Virgin' sung by the Chamber Choir and 'This Little Babe' by Middle School Choir. The music of another British composer, Bob Chilcott, also features with the choral piece 'Occoli Omnium' and the enchanting 'Song of the Stars', which will be sung by the acclaimed Belles Canto.

A piece by Schutz will be included in Senior Brass's set, whilst the Sax Quartet promise to uplift and delight, as ever.

Senior Choir, featuring around 80 singers, will provide a popular flavour with songs by The Beach Boys and Coldplay.

Around 200 pupils ranging in age from 11 up to 18 will be making this year's concert on Tuesday 8 December a night to remember.

Assistant Director of Music at Exeter School, Tom Brimelow, said the National Trust Concert was one of the highlights of the school's musical calendar.

"Around 200 pupils are involved each year, with the experience of performing in Exeter Cathedral to an audience of many hundreds being a wonderful opportunity for all our singers and instrumentalists."

Assistant Director of Operations for the National Trust in Devon, Toby Fox, said that over the last fifteen years the concert had helped support a number of conservation projects in the local area.

"Supporter groups not only promote our work to safeguard special places for future generations but also raise vital funds through all kinds of events. Buying a ticket to this concert is an excellent way for the local community to help us look after the natural environment and nation's heritage while enjoying an evening of festive music."

Pre-booking tickets is advised for this event; tickets are available on the school box office www.exeterschool.org.uk/box-office or from the National Trust Exeter and District Centre (contact: Elizabeth Stephenson on 01392 461787).