Tamsin Little’s Gypsy Violin Workshop

Monday 19^th March 2012

Town Hall, Cheltenham

What an occasion and what a sight – to see hundreds of string players from the ages of seven to eighteen, all performing together to produce an amazing sound!

Leckhampton string players felt so lucky to be given the opportunity to take part in this one-off workshop. Thirty-seven of our violin, viola and cellists took part.

The day started at 11am, straight into a work-session where world-famous violinist, Tasmin Little led our young players through today’s 15 minute long feature piece, “Gypsy Violin”.  The children were rehearsed through 3 different key changes and the majority of time they had to listen and play in 7 quavers to the bar.  In some places the piece was incredibly fast but all the players kept up and were able to follow the conductor.

At 2pm, all players including older string pupils from the County Youth Orchestra performed to parents and a friendly audience.  The spectators were rapt with Tasmin’s solo playing and the overall tutti sound was immense – a real inspiration!

What a lovely day – well done children!  You were so well behaved and you played brilliantly.  I am once more, a very proud lady!

Miss M Hartley

Music Co-ordinator