Czech RepublicArrived safely and equipment unloaded at the venue. It is very hot, so fruit cocktails and cake/ice cream are in order, although the range of teas and coffees on display in the cafe that the staff have visited is pretty impressive!
Czech RepublicSo whilst not guaranteeing that we can include photos of every student on tour we are trying our best, although some students are trying very hard to evade being captured on film! As can be seen by the six attachments attempting (and failing in five of them) to get Kymberley included in the group photos this afternoon; at one stage she even hid behind a pillar!! Got there in the end...
Kay BreslinWondering if you left Ollie Breslin at a service station!!?? Tell him his mum would like a wave!!??
Kay BreslinMatt Butler that does sound like a great way to keep him on time!! Well done!?
Czech Republic
We had asked the tour organisers before the tour whether there were suitable venues for some of our chamber ensembles to perform prior to our concerts, both as a nice performing opportunity but also to plug our concerts.
This afternoon the Arnold Quintet and the Segler String Quartet both played in the gardens of the Chateau in Kromeriz. It was a really lovely space to play in and there wereRead more
Maria ChapmanGreat! Not easy acoustics playing those instruments outside and with the warmth of the day too - but the Arnold Quintet can handle anything. 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
Czech Republic
Ok apologies in advance for these next two blogs but we had dinner in a restaurant which is often the best chance to take photos of everyone (as they are essentially a captive audience!) so it is just people at dining tables, hardly likely to win any photography awards!
The photos are of all the tables (I don't think I missed any but 119 students, 13 staff, 2 couriers and 4 drivers need a lot!)Read more
Czech RepublicOk it turned out that I had missed Rachel and Amy, as they had managed to secure themselves one of the nice tables just for two! Last dinner table photo I promise; but also thought you'd love to see the food we were served which was delicious!
Czech Republic
Our first concert of the tour was nothing short of fabulous!
The students played and sang beautifully, and it was a real pleasure to be in the audience and experience music performed with such quality and commitment.
We have used ACFEA as our tour company for many years now, and one of the reasons is that they use local couriers who know the area, know the concert venues and have good contactsRead more
Richard RoperA very special concert tonight, what a pleasure to work with such fabulous young musicians
Jo NeedleWell done everyone.Thanks for making it possble for us to hear parts of the concert!
Olga SuttonSuch privilege to be there in this stunning palace and to watch these incredible musicians!
Czech Republic
We have arrived in Luhacovice and the KD Elektra Hall which will be the venue for our second concert.
Rehearsals of Mass in Blue for CYCh, Force of Destiny, Tuba Concerto and Cowboys for CYO. Both groups sound fab in the hall, it may not look like your typical theatre but it works!
Anne HeilbuthLoving the updates and the clips. I think tonight’s venue must be a Czech cousin of the Corby Cube!
Czech RepublicThe CYO kicked us off for concert two with a superb performance of Verdi's Force of Destiny overture. Then Andy Johnson, sensational musician that he is, amazed everyone again by showing just how soloistic a tuba can be when in the hands of someone so good! The Vaughan Williams Tuba Concerto is fiendishly difficult in places (for soloist and orchestra!) but you wouldn't have thought it to listen,Read more
Maria ChapmanThese musical snatches are gold dust for us adoring fans who can’t be there- thank you. And thank you to the musicians-keep being amazing!
Czech RepublicSo I mentioned that only 60 second clips are permitted on Find Penguins (I believe colleagues are uploading longer clips and full performances on Facebook) and I have to apologise for the clip of the Force of Destiny as I think it basically stopped before the very final note?! As a submission for "most musically frustrating extract" I think it stands a chance - you'll all have to sing the lastRead more
Czech Republic
Following the CYO there was a quick stage reset and then CYCh along with soloists Brigith Benny and Millie O'Neil dazzled in Will Todd's Mass in Blue.
The choir are also absolutely on the top of their game at the moment and their performance was always soulful, beautiful and sensitive when needed and suitably jazzy throughout; Brigith and Millie also did an awesome job! The accompanying band ofRead more
You might also know this place by the following names:
Zlínský kraj, Zlinsky kraj, Zlín
Venue looks amazing
Have been watching the film "Amadeus" to check out this stunning venue. Looks impressive enough on film. Have a great concert tonight.