20 students on the BTEC National Diploma Music at Stratford-upon-Avon College will be presenting an ambitious programme of music next week.

The concert, entitled ‘BACH 2 ROCK’, showcases the talents of the students as a large ensemble or ‘rock orchestra’ – and juxtaposes a wide range of styles. A Baroque Keyboard Concerto by J S Bach rubs shoulders with the early 20^th century modernism of Stravinsky’s ‘Rite of Spring’; the Purcell-derived minimalism of Michael Nyman shares the bill with the progressive rock of King Crimson – in a survey of compositional styles and flavours. Added to this mix are an obscure Beatles number and a 5-piece a-capella vocal group, making for an exciting and thought-provoking programme.

The project is directed by lecturer Chris Long, who has had previous student groups tackle equally ambitious ‘orchestral’ works. These include Lloyd Webbers ‘Variations (On a Theme of Paganini)’ – with Orchestra of the Swan’s Nick Stringfellow taking the cello role - Mike Oldfields ‘Tubular Bells’; and programmes of Mr Long’s own compositions alongside pieces devised by the students.

Chris Long said, ‘In Year 2 of the course we try to stretch the students in terms of their ability to work from fully notated scores, and to work with complex time signatures and structures. Popular music students rarely get the chance to explore ‘serious music’, especially in the context of a larger ensemble. The students have risen to the challenge admirably, and should be very proud of what they have achieved with this show.’

The show can be seen at The New Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon College, at 7.30pm on Thursday 16th and Friday 17^th December. Tickets can be obtained from Reception on 01789 266245.

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