The Music Department hosted Mr Clive Hughes, founder member of the renowned Smith String Quartet, and Head of Strings at Millfield School, for a masterclass with string players from Taunton Senior and Taunton Prep School.

There was a focus on chamber music performance. Two of our string quartets were put through their paces, working on a Mozart Minuet and Schubert’s famous Death and the Maiden.

Solo string players were able to showcase their recent progress, and they were given practical pointers on their performances of the Bach Concerto in A Minor, Rieding Concerto in G Major, and Mozart Concerto in A Major.

Musicians from Taunton Senior and Taunton Prep School combined to perform the theme from Schubert’s Trout Quintet, developing ensemble skills, and filling the chapel with sound.

Mr Hughes said “I am full of admiration for all of you, playing these instruments”, and all the musicians took away lots of excellent advice that they can take forward in their practice and performances.