Q&A: How does one go about creating an "outdoorsy" score?

Friday 11 October 2024

The Jersey Chamber Orchestra are joining forces with local scouts in an "outdoorsy" themed concert celebrating the 90th anniversary of the 3rd Jersey Scout Group.

Local and internationally acclaimed talent, including French horn soloist Silvia Bettoli, will take to the St Helier Methodist Church stage this Saturday (12 October) under the watchful eye of Chief Conductor Eamonn Dougan.

Ahead of the performance, Express spoke with Mr Dougan about how the programme came together and what he does to prepare for a performance....

How does one go about creating an "outdoorsy" score?

We wanted to present a programme that was full of joy and vitality, but also one which had connections with nature. William Tell overture is in four “scenes” which include a graphic description of a storm, contrasted with a beautiful pastoral vista, complete with a traditional folk melody.

Pictured: The 3rd Jersey Scouts (St Saviour) will perform a number of classic film and orchestral numbers with JCO.

The horn has associations with hunting and mountain shepherds, so Mozart’s 4th concerto takes us into that territory, while Dvorak 8 is still one of his most ebullient and life-affirming scores, written in only ten weeks, while he was inspired by his surroundings.

This concert covers some musical and film classics. Is there a certain pressure performing them? Do you have a favourite part?

We have to ensure that the audience recognise the pieces they already know, of course, but I’m more interested in the opportunity to introduce the audience to new elements. Everyone will know the final section of William Tell, but do they know the storm?

It’s electrifying music! My favourite would have to be Dvorak 8 - he is one of the great melodists. 

How do you personally prepare for a performance?

I like to go for a run earlier in the day - clears the head and settles the nerves. A quiet corner to centre the mind is useful in the few minutes before a concert begins.

Your career has spanned many countries and cultures. What brings you back to Jersey's Chamber Orchestra?

It's the people that bring all of us back to JCO.

There is a great camaraderie between the players who support each other and work hard to always give their best, which makes my job much easier and more enjoyable.

DON'T MISS...

The anniversary concert is being performed at St Helier's Methodist Church tomorrow (Saturday 12 October).

Performances begin at 19:30, and you find more information HERE.