Backsberg Inter-Schools Orchestral Festival

Guests began arriving at around 3:00 that afternoon and whiled away the hours before the concert enjoying picnics, glasses of Backsberg wine and the background music of renowned pianist, Leni on the Estate lawns. Then at around six, the air began to crackle with excitement. 180 learners nervously tuned their instruments, stretched their fingers and prepared themselves for their biggest orchestral performance yet, as the audience packed into Neville's Place. The concert started off with seamless recorder ensembles, which set a general tone of awe for the concert. This was followed by the Concert Orchestra (Juniors) who played three pieces. The second of these was the traditional favourite La Cucaracha – a piece which had the audience's feet tapping the whole way through. The evening was rounded off with another three pieces by the Symphony Orchestra (Seniors). They played Going Home – an original composition by Somerset College Musical Director, Simon Chapman, followed by the popular March from Carmen, and finished off with the very difficult music from Gladiator. By the end of the concert there was resounding applause as parents beamed with pride and the learners bubbled over with excitement at the success of their performance. Guests at the concert were blown away by the professionalism the learners displayed, as well as the range of their talent. Michael Back closed the concert, noting what an incredible opportunity it is to be part of such an event. He thanked the learners for all of their hard work in putting together an amazing and entertaining evening.

Now in its sixth year, this is the only festival of its kind in the area and is fast gaining popularity as one of the most important events on the musical calendar. The Backsberg Estate was packed with over 500 guests, and it was clear that the entire family and a barrage of friends had come out to support each learner.

Learners from about 30 schools and music centres all over the Boland and Helderberg areas take part and this is often the only chance they get to perform as part of a group, because most schools don't have a functional orchestra. The festival is unique because it brings learners from varied social and economic backgrounds together – laying the platform for the  forging of friendships and the appreciation of music.

Each learner is sent their music prior to the performance so that they can practice on their own. Then, over the weekend of the festival they all travel down to the Franschhoek area to practice together at Bridge House School for the first time. Over the course of two days an individual musical project is transformed into a collaborative orchestral show under the guidance of Simon Chapman. This culminates in one phenomenal concert and hundreds of delighted onlookers. This year's show was a huge success and the learners say they can't wait until next year.