Pupils treated to a musical masterclass from award winning former pupil

We were thrilled to welcome award winning composer and former pupil Kerensa Briggs back to King's as she spoke with our current crop of budding musicians.

Kerensa gave an afternoon Composition workshop to our GCSE and A Level students and a short introduction about her time at King's and how she was inspired by her love of singing and her experiences and attachment to the Cathedral. Her father is also a Cathedral Organist which was an added influence in her musical career. Kerensa talked about the issues of developing her career as a self-employed composer including the challenges of getting established in what has long been a very male dominated profession. We were treated to a number of her compositions, as well as other music which had an influence on her own style. During the afternoon, Kerensa spent time listening to some of our pupils' compositions, giving advice and encouragement. After school, other pupils joined us for a more formal presentation which included a Q&A session where we learned more about Kerensa's journey as a freelance composer.

Mr Pennington, Director of Music commented, "Composing is an important element of musical study and counts for 30% of the course at both GCSE and A Level. Whilst most of our music students would consider themselves as performers,  I am keen to try and change pupils' mindsets and encourage them to think of themselves as composers too".

The current IV Form have just started a task to compose a Christmas piece - with the intention of including pupils' music during our popular Festival of Carols.

To learn more about Kerensa's amazing story and to hear her work, visit her website:  https://www.kerensabriggs.co.uk/