Music Masterclass: Shells hit all the right notes

This week, we were delighted to welcome professional violinist Ian Watson to King’s to perform for some of our students and give a masterclass in ensemble playing. Ian, who lives in Chester, is originally from South Africa and has played with a number of major orchestras, including time as Principal 1st Violin of the Hallé Orchestra under Sir Mark Elder. 

Musicians from Shells gathered in the Recital Room to listen to Ian perform the unaccompanied piece “Obsession” by Eugene Ysaÿe, followed by Bartók’s Romanian Dances, which was accompanied by Miss Banerjee on piano.

Mia Hirakawa (SHBRD) and Daniel Goharriz (SHGRO) also played solo pieces and Ian was invited to give his feedback on the performances, giving both students the opportunity to benefit from the notes of a professional.   

Shells Symphony then went on to perform to an audience for the first time in this academic year, playing a variety of pieces including Handel’s March from the Occasional Oratorio and “If I were a Rich Man” after which Ian gave his professional insight into playing in an ensemble, advice that the students will use to enhance their performances as they continue to play together.