This summer, the Barnet Youth Wind Orchestra enjoyed a memorable five-day trip to Oostduinkerke, Belgium, filled with music, cultural experiences, and special performances.
On Day 2, the orchestra participated in a sound workshop at the renowned Brugge Concertgebouw. The young musicians played Patrice Moullet’s OMNI and Erwin Stache’s Kilo Ohm. Following the workshop, they visited Choco-Story, a museum dedicated to the art of Belgian chocolate. The day culminated in a remarkable performance at the Menin Gate’s Last Post ceremony in Ypres, where they played to an audience of over 500 people, a profound and moving experience for both the orchestra and attendees.
Day 3 began with a scenic cruise through the canals of Bruges under the sunshine. The orchestra then delighted locals and tourists with a performance at a bandstand before heading to the beach for some well-deserved rest and fun.
On Day 4, the group enjoyed tea in the charming garden of Talbot House, a historical WWI site. This was followed by a stunning concert in the beautiful grounds of the house. Later that day, the students visited a theme park for some amusement, capping off the evening with awards and a quiz, celebrating their incredible performances throughout the trip.
The trip was a huge success, full of fun, music, learning, and memories that everyone will remember for a long time
