Youngsters throughout Leicestershire are being warmly invited to bring their families and beloved teddy bears for a delightful afternoon of music and creativity. The Leicester Symphony Orchestra (LSO) is set to present a special concert designed to captivate children, with duffle coats and marmalade sandwiches as optional extras to enhance the whimsical experience.
A Musical Journey Through Fairy Tales and Fun
The event will take place at Judgemeadow Community College on Saturday, February 7, commencing at 3pm. The programme features two enchanting works: Maurice Ravel's "Mother Goose Suite" and Herbert Chappell's "Paddington Bear's First Concert." Ravel's suite was originally composed for children, with each movement vividly portraying a beloved fairy story, making it an ideal introduction to classical music for young ears.
Poetry Competition Adds Interactive Element
To deepen children's engagement and immerse them in the musical atmosphere, the LSO has initiated a poetry competition. Winning entries will be performed live during the concert by Mr Shay, Leicester's esteemed Poet Laureate. This initiative aims to make the event more interactive and memorable for participants.
Sarah Marsh, a French horn player with the orchestra who is overseeing the competition, expressed her enthusiasm: "This is not just a fantastic competition; it's a unique opportunity for children to witness and hear a full symphony orchestra performing live. I'm particularly thrilled that Mr Shay is joining us. As a Leicester-based poet, rapper, and beat-boxer, he is widely recognised and admired by young people and schools across the county."
Creative Freedom and Chaotic Fun
The poetry competition encourages creativity without boundaries. Entries can take any form, from haiku and rap to limericks, allowing young writers to express themselves freely. Marsh added, "We hope many will embrace the challenge and enjoy some teddy-related fun along the way."
Meanwhile, "Paddington Bear's First Concert" promises light-hearted entertainment, with narration by Mr Shay. This comical musical suite depicts Paddington's initial encounter with a classical orchestra, culminating in the chaotic antics typical of the beloved bear's adventures.
Key Details for Participation
Full details regarding the poetry competition are available on the Leicester Symphony Orchestra's official website. Entries must be submitted by Saturday, January 31, providing ample time for aspiring poets to craft their works.
Concert tickets can be purchased through the orchestra's online ticket shop. The venue, Judgemeadow Community College in Leicester, is easily accessible, ensuring a convenient outing for families from across the region.
This event represents a wonderful blend of cultural enrichment and community engagement, offering children a chance to explore music and poetry in a supportive, festive environment.
