Sir George Benjamin, one of the UK’s preeminent contemporary classical composers was concerned to hear that music education is under threat in the country’s schools. A friend suggested he come to Haringey to see what we do. On Tuesday 30 April Sir George spent the afternoon with Peter Desmond, Head of Haringey Music Service, visiting a year 4 class in Tiverton Primary School before discussing music education with Head teacher Resham Mirza.
They then went to Alexandra Park School to meet Head of Music Sue Stephens and discussed GCSE, BTEC and A Level Music provision in secondary schools. Following this very informative discussion and meeting an A level composition student, Sir George was then taken to see six “Haringey Young Musicians” rehearsals happening concurrently at Hornsey School for Girls.
Sir George's visit concluded by spending half an hour with Haringey Vox choir at Chestnuts Community Centre.
In a very complimentary letter sent the next day, Sir George thanked us for a memorable afternoon, during which he learnt a lot about the current status of music education in England. He also said he hugely enjoyed the devotion of the staff he met and the enthusiasm and joy of the young musicians.