THURSDAY 13th NOVEMBER 2025: SWeet! Superstars were made honorary students of the Junior Royal Academy of Music for the day, when they visited the London International Festival of Early Music in Blackheath!
First we heard a wonderful concert given by Junior Royal Academy of Music students, under the direction of their tutor, Barbara Law. Exploring the music of female composers, both past and present, this pioneering programme was very well-received. The Junior Academy students captivated us with their true mastery of our instrument, leaving us breathless and motivated to practice!
Following the concert, we attended a workshop, side-by-side with the Junior Academy students, where Barbara coached us altogether in three pieces by Thomas Weelkes 1576-1623. It was inspirational to see SWeet! students and Junior Academy students making such a warm ensemble sound, and playing so securely together under Barbara’s baton, even though they had only just met.
As a special treat, renowned professional recorder player Erik Bosgraaf visited the workshop and conducted us for a final play-through.
Many thanks to Erik Bosgraaf, Ann Barkway from LIFEM, and especially to Barbara Law for organising everything and making our students feel so welcome!