Parfitt Day

The day started off with a lunchtime lecture recital, where Dr Govier introduced the audience to a beautiful fortepiano, transported to the school just for the day! He explored the works of Haydn and Mozart – music that was played on the fortepianos of the late 18th Century to early 19th Century, before the modern grand was developed. Afterschool, three pianists participated in an excellent masterclass with Dr Govier, where he detailed the best approaches for articulation, style, and musicality. Students played stunning pieces such as In the mists by Leoš Janáček, and Sonata in F, opus 2, no 2, by Beethoven. The day ended with an enthralling student concert, where keyboard players from across the school performed a huge variety of pieces. From Vierne’s first organ symphony to Beethoven’s Piano Trio, opus 1, no 1, from Copland’s ‘Scherzo Humoristique’ to a spectacular finish with Poulenc’s Sonata for four hands, there truly was something for everyone. Every piece was played with incredible care and musicality, so thank you to all the amazing performers for such a wonderful evening! Thank you again to the brilliant Miss White who masterminded the entire day, to Dr Geoffrey Govier for his wonderful musical insights, and to the fabulous tech team who made the entire day available to watch on estream! I highly recommend everyone to watch all the events as they were absolutely fantastic.

Alex (VI)