2025 Course and Concert

Sunday 2 November 2025 - Cadogan Hall, London

2025 Concert in Cadogan Hall

The 2025 English Schools’ Orchestra course marked a significant milestone - our 30th Anniversary - and an exciting new chapter in our history as we moved to Woldingham School, nestled in the Surrey Hills. The new venue brought together every aspect of the ESO experience under one roof, combining exceptional rehearsal spaces with comfortable boarding, superb catering and an inspiring sense of community.

From Wednesday morning registration at the Millennium Centre, students quickly found themselves immersed in a full schedule of full and sectional rehearsals. The Millennium Theatre, with its warm acoustic and professional facilities, proved an ideal space for the large-scale full orchestra rehearsals, while smaller rooms were alive with focused sectional work. Our highly experienced tutors and mentors guided students with enthusiasm and care, helping each player grow in skill and confidence.

Between rehearsals, the atmosphere was lively and welcoming - snacks, laughter and the sound of the centre’s pianos drifting through the corridors created the unique sense of belonging that defines an ESO week. Evenings offered a perfect balance to the intensity of rehearsals: a lively Cèilidh, organised by percussion mentor Nathan with snare drum, flute and cello accompaniment, had everyone on their feet as he called the dances with infectious energy; sports enthusiasts enjoyed friendly football and basketball matches in the sports hall; and a team quiz night brought the whole group together in good humour and laughter. These shared experiences helped forge strong friendships and a wonderful sense of teamwork.

The Percussion Section during the Concert

The catering team at Woldingham was widely praised, with students and staff alike enjoying excellent meals and the opportunity to relax and socialise together. The variety throughout the week was exceptional — from hearty dishes such as chilli, sweet and sour pork, spaghetti and meatballs, baked potatoes and burgers, to beautifully prepared salads, lamb tagine, curry and full cooked breakfasts. Every meal felt like a celebration, and the consistently high quality of the food added to the sense that this was a truly special and well-cared-for week.

One parent commented that their daughter “had a wonderful week, thoroughly enjoyed herself (aching shoulders and all) and says she learned a lot.” Another added, “Alicia absolutely loved the teaching and how well she was looked after… she came out and said of the week, ‘I had soooo much fun!’”

This year’s course benefited from the generosity of The Humphrey Richardson Taylor Charitable Trust, ABRSM, and The Potential Trust, whose bursaries ensured that talented young musicians from all backgrounds could participate fully. One bursary recipient wrote:

“Without the bursary, I wouldn’t have been able to attend, so it made a huge difference. The week was an amazing and inspiring experience that helped me grow as both a musician and a person.”

The week culminated in the 30th Anniversary Concert at Cadogan Hall, London, on Sunday 2 November 2025. Performing a demanding and diverse programme under Lewis Gaston, the orchestra delivered a performance that was both polished and deeply moving.

Cellos during the Concert

The concert opened with Humperdinck’s Hansel and Gretel Overture, full of warmth, colour and precision. Vasks’ Credo followed — a haunting and spiritual work performed with remarkable poise and intensity. After the interval came Mahler’s Symphony No. 1, a true test of stamina and musicianship. The young players rose brilliantly to the challenge: the opening movement shimmered with delicate detail, the rustic second danced with energy, the funeral march of the third was beautifully shaped, and the final movement surged towards an exhilarating conclusion.

Audience members were full of praise. One parent wrote, “The concert was excellent — and a credit to pull off the Mahler in such a short time. Well done all.” Another described “marvelling that she was part of that really quite inspirational sound.” For many, the pride on students’ faces as they took their applause summed up the spirit of the ESO perfectly.

Mentorship was again central to the week’s success. Students spoke warmly of the guidance they received — one parent noted, “He really benefitted from the great efforts of his mentor Nathan who gave him good advice and encouraged him to have fun. Enzo is very keen to attend next year.” That enthusiasm was echoed across the orchestra, with returning members already eager for the 2026 course.

The 2025 course captured everything the English Schools’ Orchestra stands for: exceptional music-making, genuine friendship, and the transformative power of shared experience. Set against the beautiful backdrop of Woldingham School and culminating in a thrilling performance at Cadogan Hall, this 30th Anniversary year will long be remembered by everyone involved.

2025 Programme

(Click titles for more details)

• Engelbert Humperdinck - Overture from Hansel and Gretel

  Humperdinck’s overture to Hansel and Gretel is a charming blend of fairy-tale magic and Wagnerian richness. Premiered in 1893, it introduces the opera’s key themes, weaving together lyrical melodies and playful motifs that capture the innocence and wonder of the story. The lush orchestration, with its warm harmonies and sparkling textures, creates an enchanting soundscape that delights musicians and audiences alike. This overture offers young musicians the opportunity to explore dynamic contrasts, intricate phrasing, and the expressive storytelling that makes it a timeless favourite.

• Pēteris Vasks - Credo

  Credo by Pēteris Vasks is a deeply moving work that reflects hope and spirituality through music. Composed in 2009, it combines soaring melodies with rich harmonies, creating a powerful emotional journey. The piece balances moments of quiet introspection with dramatic climaxes, challenging musicians to convey its profound depth and intensity. Vasks draws on his Latvian heritage and love of nature, infusing Credo with a sense of renewal and resilience. Performing this piece offers young musicians a chance to connect with its universal themes of faith, hope, and the triumph of the human spirit.

• Gustav Mahler - Symphony no. 1 in D

  Mahler’s Symphony No. 1, "Titan," is a thrilling journey through nature, life, and emotion, making it a perfect centrepiece for the English Schools' Orchestra programme. Composed in 1888, this symphony bursts with youthful energy and imagination. Its sweeping melodies, vivid orchestration, and dramatic contrasts challenge and inspire young musicians. From the serene opening evoking dawn to the triumphant finale, the symphony showcases Mahler’s genius for storytelling through music. Performing this masterpiece offers students the chance to explore rich textures, dynamic interplay, and emotional depth, creating an unforgettable experience in both learning and performance.

Rehearsal and Concert Photos - Click here to see album.