St Edward's Chronicle October 2016

16

ST EDWARD’S CHRONICLE

FOCUS ON MUSIC

record and conduct the Berlin Philharmonic. Deep Blue was the first film score that the Berlin Philharmonic. had recorded in its entire history. As highlights go that was an unbelievable one. It was like a dream. What are you working on now? Theoretically ‘on having a more balanced life’, which is good because it means I can spend more time concentrating on the next phase of The North Wall, which I was very involved with at the start and which I am passionate about. It’s one of St Edward’s greatest resources. I would like it to be a completely integrated part of life for the whole school community. The new Music School, too, will be a great and timely asset for Teddies. Learning music in a first class environment will have a huge impact on music in the school and the increased

facilities such as the Recital Room will be a further attraction and point of access for everyone to enjoy music and hopefully in time will offer some excellent and varied programmes for all. So it’s an exciting prospect. Aside from that I recently finished the Ken Loach film, I, Daniel Blake and in July I recorded a score for a new 3D Imax film Predators . I’m working on a series of documentaries about the environment for CCTV in China and Channel 4, and I am in the early stages of writing a new stage musical to be produced in Vienna. I’m also preparing a series of concerts with the Philharmonia, with whom I work a lot. The next one is at the Festival Hall in December. In general I’m most at home writing music in an applied or collaborative sense.

I like how it can add to other stories and actions and make us connect with them. Film and theatre have endlessly interested me for that reason. Now I’m also starting to write something specifically for dance – which feels like a natural progression – to try to create a significant enough narrative through music for someone to make a ballet. That’s the hope. Awards: George has won four BAFTA Awards including for Bergerac and The Blue Planet ; Primetime Emmys for Beyond the Clouds , The Blue Planet and P lanet Earth ; The Classical Brit; and seven Ivor Novello Awards including for Shadowlands , Cry Freedom , Gandhi , The Monocled Mutineer and The Jewel in the Crown .

Ella Davis What musical activities are you involved in atTeddies? I sing regularly with the Chapel and Chamber Choirs. Additionally I play in the harp ensemble and take individual classes in piano, harp and singing. Where were you at school before and what made you choose St Edward’s? I attended The Study Preparatory, Wimbledon, and then spent two years at Kingston Grammar School. I chose Teddies because of the opportunity it gave me to continue with all my extra-curricular activities alongside my academic work. The strength of the Music and Dance Departments was particularly alluring and my time at the School has taught me that the reality of the incredible Music Department far exceeds its reputation. What has been your favourite musical performance or moment at St Edward’s? It seems as though my days at Teddies are defined by musical events - from the West Side Story production to numerous Sundays singing with the Chapel Choir. However, my favourite would have to be the annual Scholars’ Recital. Despite the nerves, I love how all the scholars and teachers come

together to support each other and the beautiful music that is created through doing so. What are you most looking forward to about the new Music School? The Sixth Form Music Library. I’m taking A Level music so I imagine I’ll be spending a lot of time there! Which teacher has had the most influence on your musical development? Mr Tester, who is an incredible teacher and leader. He seems to know everything that’s going on in the Music Department and is an ever-present source of good humour and advice never failing to brighten the day. What music do you listen to in your spare time? I love to listen to opera, particularly Maria Callas. I adore her recording of the Mona Lisa aria from Madame Butterfly . I hate to admit it but I have a secret love of country music, much to the dismay of my housemates! What do you want to do after school? I hope to go on to study either English or Music at Oxbridge. I would love to gain a Choral Scholarship and be able to continue singing in a Chapel Choir.