Summer 2007

King James’s musicians were treated to fine weather and warm audiences this summer during their third tour since 2000. After the great success of Paris in 2004, Head of Music, Bryan Western, was a little reticent about the move to Valkenburg. “I had visited Valkenburg over 20 years ago and knew it was a really scenic place to be based, but audiences in Paris were so enthusiastic that I wondered how we would be received in Holland”. There was no need for concern. At each concert, the Senior Wind Band and Riverside Jazz were warmly welcomed and greeted with good-sized audiences.

The bands gave 3 concerts in three days, one of which was at the Efterling Theme Park some two hours away from Valkenburg. “This was certainly one of the highlights of the trip,” reported Mr. Western. “We played for over an hour and a half and then enjoyed all the attractions of the park. It was a spectacular park with a wide variety of activities and rides. The final concert was on the bandstand in Valkenburg itself, a lovely setting with people wondering past, standing around the bandstand or sitting in local cafes.

The performers aged between 12 and 18, enjoyed visits to a coalmine, swimming at a local leisure complex, a relaxing river trip and a visit to some extraordinary caves at Pietersburg.

Mr. Western would like to congratulate the whole party for representing Knaresborough and the school so admirably, “The tour was one of the most enjoyable tours I have organised and would like to thank the 6 staff and 41 pupils for their support. The pupils were amazing: perfectly behaved, well natured and performed terrifically high quality music. We were all so proud of them. The department are now looking forward to their next tour!