It is always a thrill to welcome visitors into school and, in a week where cellist Philip Higham, pianist Steven Osborne and clarinetist Jean Johnson were already performing as part of our lunchtime concert series, our masterclass season kicked off with the remarkable oboist, Francois Leleux joining us for an evening of music, both solo and ensemble.
Over 70 guests from the region and further afield, assembled in the School Chapel to observe M.Leleux’s masterclass in insight and vision, as ever, coloured by his unique sense of humour. The evening started with two separate sessions with pupil oboists Alasdair Cottee (S3) playing Silvestrini and Sophia Laurie (RCS Juniors) playing the Reizenstein Sonatina with pianist John Cameron. The evening concluded with a coached rehearsal of the Telemann E minor Concerto with the Senior String Ensemble providing the backdrop to Alasdair Cottee’s exceptional solo playing. M.Leleux breathes life into every phrase, sparks curiosity and conversation at every turn and, despite extraordinary demonstrations of his own playing, has an exceptional ability to make young players feel at ease. It is hard to imagine a greater advocate for double reed playing at all levels.
It is especially encouraging to have pupils and their teachers from throughout the region visiting the school and taking part in such special events. The evening was enjoyed by all who attended and M.Leleux was thrilled to play to a “home crowd”! Congratulations to Sophia and Alasdair both for their outstanding performances.