Tonbridge School’s Symphony Orchestra delivered an exceptional performance this term, presenting two iconic works from the German Romantic tradition. Held in the Chapel of St Augustine, the concert showcased the ambition and talent of the School’s musicians as they tackled some of the most demanding repertoire in the symphonic canon.
The evening began with the Evening Hymn and Dream Pantomime from Engelbert Humperdinck’s opera Hansel and Gretel. The orchestra captured the stillness and beauty of the children’s evening prayer and the magical atmosphere as angels appeared in their dreams, bathed in light.
The second part of the programme featured Brahms’ Symphony No. 4, often hailed as one of the finest symphonic achievements of the 19th century. Renowned for its intricate structure and emotional intensity, the piece demands both technical precision and expressive depth. The students rose to the challenge, delivering a performance that highlighted the work’s rich contrasts—from its lyrical opening to the intricate, Bach-inspired finale.
Director of Music, Mark Forkgen said: "Performing full symphonies is an important milestone for young musicians. It develops their ensemble playing and helps them engage in depth with some of the greatest music ever written. This term’s focus on 19th-century German repertoire has allowed them to explore the stylistic features of the time and deepen their appreciation of the era."
