Year 5 blog:

This week, our Year 5 children had the exciting opportunity to visit the Mayflower Theatre in Southampton to watch a captivating performance by the Welsh National Opera. For many of us, this was our first experience of live opera and it truly did not disappoint! The performance combined beautiful music, stunning costumes and incredible vocals, leaving us all in awe. The Welsh National Opera showcased the power and beauty of classical music, blending powerful vocals with orchestral music in a way that sparked our curiosity and imagination.

During the trip, we learned about the different types of voices in opera, such as soprano, alto, tenor and bass and how each one contributes to the performance. We also explored the sections of the orchestra—percussion, strings, woodwinds, and brass—and how they work together to create the powerful soundscapes that accompany the singers.

The final part of the visit was interactive, as we had the chance to join in and perform a traditional Welsh song! Led by the opera singers and musicians, we used our bodies as percussion instruments, adding a fun and hands-on element to the experience. Everyone enjoyed participating, and it was a wonderful way to bring the magic of opera to life.

Overall, the trip was a fantastic opportunity for us to immerse ourselves in the world of opera, learn new skills, and gain a deeper appreciation for music and performance. It’s an experience we’ll all remember for a long time!