STUDENT musicians from around Cornwall learned how to fine-tune their skills in Newquay during a visit from members of a top orchestra.

Musicians from Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra staged a workshop at Newquay Tretherras with around 300 students in partnership with the ASONE Music Hub on Thursday, October 16.

The super orchestra consisted of musicians playing various instruments including drums, guitar, percussion, strings, woodwind, brass, saxophone and keyboards
The super orchestra consisted of musicians playing various instruments including drums, guitar, percussion, strings, woodwind, brass, saxophone and keyboards

Students from Newquay Tretherras, Hayle Academy, St Ives Academy, Mullion School, Pool Academy, Redruth School and Roseland Academy formed a super-orchestra working side-by-side with Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra musicians to bring to life ambitious arrangements of iconic rock anthems, including Toto’s Africa and Queen’s Seven Seas of Rhye.

The pieces were specially adapted and conducted by Patrick Bailey, the associate musician of the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, whose energetic and engaging style lit up the rehearsal space. His ability to break down complex musical ideas with clarity and humour made him an instant hit. Students honed their ensemble, rehearsal, and performance skills under his guidance.

Students honed their ensemble, rehearsal, and performance skills
Students honed their ensemble, rehearsal, and performance skills

The students were treated to a bespoke concert from the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, designed specifically for Key Stage 4 learners, following the workshops.

The performance took students on a musical journey from the elegance of Bach and the drama of Beethoven, to the hypnotic minimalism of Terry Riley. The concert concluded with a powerful modern piece originally composed for a nature documentary complete with on-screen visuals and live score projection, deepening the students' connection between music and multimedia.

Mr Bailey led a live composition and analysis session during an inspiring finale using musical ideas submitted by students. The session brought theory to life, showing how student-created motifs could be developed into full orchestral textures.

Bethany Wade, the head of music at Tretherras, said: “It was a resounding celebration of music and collaboration. A day of unparalleled musical inspiration and performance.

“The event was a triumph not only for its musical excellence but also for its commitment to accessibility, inclusion, and the nurturing of young talent across Cornwall.

“It’s about more than just playing notes. It’s about listening, responding, and making music together. These young people are learning how to collaborate, express themselves, and perform with confidence.”

Abbey Toman from Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra added: “We stage these GCSE concerts at schools across the South West focusing on pieces in the curriculum to help the students in their studies.

“We invited students to take part in a workshop to develop their skills and bring local schools together.

“It is really important for our orchestra to stage these outreach events as the arts are so important. It shows these young people sitting alongside the professional musicians that playing in an orchestra can be career and not just a hobby.”

Newquay Tretherras headteacher Gemma Harries said: “We are excited and feel privileged to have the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra at Newquay Tretherras.

“Seeing the young people collaborate through music is special. Music is close to our heart at Tretherras and we would like to thank all the people involved who have come together to elevate our young people’s gifts and talents.”