On a rainy Sunday in early February, Camden School for Girls was filled with energy as thirty young musicians came together for an orchestral workshop with the Ernest Read Symphony Orchestra (ERSO). Players from three orchestras and the Concert Band joined forces for a full day of exploring storytelling through music.

The morning opened with Prokofiev’s Montagues and Capulets, led by ERSO’s inspiring conductors, Alice and Chris. Students quickly got stuck into its bold rhythms and dramatic contrasts, discovering how Prokofiev uses musical tension to bring the world of Romeo and Juliet to life.

In the afternoon, the focus shifted to the magical sound world of John Williams’ Harry Potter score. Working on colour, atmosphere and pacing, the group explored how rhythmic detail and shifting textures help build suspense, shape character, and create vivid musical moments.

The day finished with an informal sharing, showcasing how confidently the young musicians rose to the challenge of expressing drama and mood through sound. We were especially proud of our Training Orchestra players, who learned their music from sight and delivered a polished performance by the end of the day.

Feedback from both the players and the audience was overwhelmingly positive, and we look forward to continuing this valued partnership next year.