Bryanston has launched an exciting new partnership with the renowned string department of Trinity Laban providing exceptional opportunities for its music pupils to connect and learn from leading professionals in the industry.
The collaboration will offer Bryanston’s existing and incoming Sixth Form pupils regular access to Trinity Laban’s world-class string professors, and opportunities to visit the London-based conservatoire. These experiences will offer musicians first-hand insights into conservatoire life, preparing them for future pathways in professional music education. Through tailored mentorship, pupils will receive expert guidance on audition techniques and essential skills required to excel as musicians.
Xavier Iles, Bryanston’s Director of Music, said, “This mentorship scheme is an invaluable opportunity for our music students as it allows them to connect with professional musicians and experience real-life conservatoire settings. The partnership marks an exciting chapter for Bryanston’s Music Department, blending inspiration, education and opportunity to support our musicians.”
Nic Pendlebury, Trinity Laban’s Head of Strings, added, “At Trinity Laban we equip our students with the tools to create their own creative career. We are very pleased to collaborate with Bryanston, supporting pupils in their artistic growth and helping them to develop as independent performers.”
The partnership launched with a remarkable concert in Bryanston’s Elder Concert Hall in November 2024. The day began with intensive masterclasses and string orchestra rehearsals, where seventy pupils from Bryanston and thirteen other schools had the opportunity to work alongside five accomplished string staff from Trinity Laban, under the direction of Nic Pendlebury.
The evening culminated in a stunning performance featuring Grieg’s Holberg Suite and Piazzolla’s Las Cuatro Estaciones Porteñas, Invierno. Notably, Old Bryanstonian and Trinity Laban graduate Kate Simpson delivered a standout solo performance, showcasing her exceptional talent.
The Trinity Laban staff also performed highlights, including a movement from Holst’s St Paul’s Suite, Dittersdorf’s Variations for Double Bass and Viola, and a beautifully arranged Shine You No More for violin and cello duo, crafted by the Danish Quartet. The 300-seat Elder Concert Hall provided a fitting and atmospheric venue for these outstanding performances.
Looking ahead, Bryanston will host its inaugural string competition on Sunday 23rd March 2025, adjudicated by Nic Pendlebury. Open to pupils of all ages and abilities from Bryanston and other schools from across the UK, the competition will spotlight emerging talent with the top award offering a musician the chance to win a prize day at Trinity Laban, experiencing life as a conservatoire student. The deadline for competition entries is Friday 31st January 2025. To take part, please visit tickets.bryanston.co.uk/sales/music-string-competition. For further information about the Trinity Laban Partnership, please contact [email protected].
Bryanston Trinity Partnership Full Video 2024.mov
Bryanston offers music scholarships for pupils entering Year 7, 9 and Year 12, held annually in January, March and November. Scholarships recognise talent and enthusiasm for music, providing support to aspiring young musicians.
