King's Lynn Pupils Conduct World Famous Orchestra

Youngsters at a West Norfolk School had the chance to try their hand at conducting music played by classical musicians during a school “celebration day”.

John Lubbock, conductor of the internationally-famous Orchestra of St John’s, and three of the orchestra’s string players held a workshop at Churchill Park School for pupils with complex needs at King’s Lynn.

Their visit was arranged in conjunction with the orchestra’s performance at a King’s Lynn Festival concert in the Minster Church on Tuesday evening. (Tues July 15)

Mr Lubbock, who has an autistic son and frequently works with young people with learning difficulties, encouraged students aged from seven to 15 to try their hand at conducting the music – and met with an enthusiastic response.

Class teacher Clara Smith, said:” We have had visits from other musicians but they have never heard classical music before. It quite clearly has a calming effect on the children and they enjoy the music.

“We try and give them a variety of experiences of music and theatre so are delighted to have classical musicians here,” she said.

About 60 youngsters were able to join in the workshop during a “day of celebration” as the summer holiday approaches.

Festival chairman Alison Croose said: “We were delighted to provide this opportunity for youngsters at Churchill Park and it was great to see their positive response to the music and to Mr Lubbock’s invitation to them to try their hand at conducting.”