By Mrs Jones (Music Teacher)

On Sunday 7th June, members of the Music Department enjoyed an unforgettable trip to the spectacular Blockbusters Concert, a celebration of some of the most iconic film music ever written,  performed by the world-renowned London Symphony Orchestra (LSO). 

Conducted by the highly acclaimed Dirk Brossé, the programme opened with John Williams’ Superman March, followed by dramatic selections from Patrick Doyle’s Thor, immediately capturing the excitement and grandeur of the superhero genre.

A wide variety of musical styles followed, from the suspense and tension of James Horner’s Aliens Suite No. 1 to the more reflective atmosphere of Alexandre Desplat’s New Moon. One of the evening’s highlights was the world premiere of James Horner and Simon Franglen’s Pandora Suite, transporting listeners to the breathtaking world of Pandora. Adventure and fantasy continued with music inspired by Star Wars, Skull Island and Who Framed Roger Rabbit?. 

After the interval, Patrick Doyle’s music from Brave captured the spirit of Scotland, while another world premiere, Romain Trouillet’s Asterix: The Kingdom of Nubia, showcased vibrant orchestral writing and exciting new film music.

A particularly special aspect of the concert was the presence of composers Simon Franglen, Romain Trouillet and Trevor Jones in the audience. It was a rare privilege for students to witness composers attending performances of their own work, especially with two world premieres in the programme.

Olivia (Year 10) said “The London Symphony Orchestra was an incredible experience to watch, especially considering this was the orchestra who recorded in the actual movies such as Stars Wars: A New Hope. I am so glad that the music department organised this trip as seeing one of the world’s most famous orchestras is such an opportunity I am so grateful to have experienced. I hope they organise more exciting trips like this in the future!”