Guernsey Music Centre is run by the Guernsey Music Service who in term time deliver instrumental and vocal lessons, ensemble tuition and curriculum support to over 1000 pupils in Guernsey and Alderney as part of the Education Department. It operates in all schools in the Bailiwick and on a Saturday is based at the Princess Royal Centre for Performing Arts and at the Les Varendes site.
His Excellency and Mrs Cripwell visited six of the thirty groups that children attend at Music Centre, and as part of their tour heard young musicians from the Concert Wind Band, Chamber Orchestra, Youth Wind Band, Primary Violas, Primary Cellos and Youth Choir. They also had time to visit a music theory lesson and speak to support staff.
His Excellency was pleased to hear the Concert Wind Band perform his Regimental March ‘Wings’ and commented ‘This music has been a part of my professional life and I was surprised and delighted to hear it today. The skills and talents we have seen today at all levels have been excellent and the Guernsey Music Centre deserves its tremendous reputation for the opportunity it gives to so many to learn to play an instrument and be part of the Island’s rich musical tradition.’
Tim Wright, Head of Guernsey Music Service commented ‘It was a pleasure to show His Excellency and Mrs Cripwell around Guernsey Music Centre. Working together in musical ensembles enables all children to develop their confidence, teamwork and resilience, as well as developing their musical skills. His Excellency and Mrs Cripwell were able to see this in action on Saturday and we are delighted that they could get to see some of the 700 pupils we have in our Saturday ensembles in action’.