STUDENTS from two Chepstow schools combined with a leading orchestra and composer to create a multimedia composition and performance celebrating 50 years since the building of the first Severn Bridge, the Brynglas Tunnel and the last Aust Ferry crossing.
On Friday 9th December a special sharing event was held at Chepstow School, where all the students involved gathered together with musicians to showcase their work to parents, fellow students and members of the public.
The project, named ‘Boats, Tunnels and Bridges’ was created in combination with leading Welsh chamber orchestra Sinfonia Cymru partnered with acclaimed British composer Liz Lane, film production company AOTV, Chepstow School and Thornwell Primary School to deliver this exciting project.
A level media students from Chepstow School worked alongside AOTV to produce short films inspired by the Severn Bridge, the Brynglas Tunnel and the Severn Princess ferry boat. These films were then used as the inspiration for compositions by A level music students, assisted by Liz Lane and professional musicians from Sinfonia Cymru.
Pupils from Thornwell Primary School worked with Liz, lyricist David Lewis and the school’s musicians to compose their own ferry boat songs, inspired by the journeys of the Severn Princess. The project benefitted from the knowledge of local experts Andrew Leitch from Mabey, and Tim Ryan, who has been working on the Severn Princess conservation and restoration. Both Andrew and Tim featured in the films.
The A level music students heard their work played live by professional musicians, with one of the students even getting the chance to conduct the ensemble for his own composition. Year 4 pupils from Thornwell Primary School performed their ferry boat song, accompanied by Sinfonia Cymru.
Composer Liz Lane said: “I am delighted to be involved with this exciting project, which highlights these important anniversaries. It is a great opportunity to connect past and present history in some innovative ways, and bring together the local community.”