Sixteen‑year‑old Lauren, a Year 11 student at Portsmouth High School GDST, premiered and conducted her first composition at the school’s annual Gala Concert, held in the stunning surroundings of Portsmouth Cathedral.
How would you describe the performance of your first composition?
I can only describe the experience as totally overwhelming. Hearing my work brought to life by a full orchestra was incredible.
What inspired you to write your composition?
My inspiration for the piece came from San Giorgio Maggiore at Dusk, the celebrated painting by Impressionist artist Claude Monet. As this was my first composition in this style, I wanted a stimulus. I first saw the picture online and later visited Venice to see the abbey in person. Seeing it in all its colourful glory captivated me.
How did you start composing your piece?
It began as a piano composition and soon evolved into a full orchestral score with the encouragement of the school’s Director of Music, Mr Tinsley. I wanted to use the flutes for melody and the double bass and cello for the low parts and accompaniment of the melody, while bringing in other instruments for the harmony. Although the piano stayed in the piece, it became less prominent as the orchestration developed.
How did you feel when you stood up to conduct your piece at the Gala Concert?
Conducting my own work for the first time was both nerve‑wracking and exhilarating. I was nervous to begin with, but the nerves fell away. It became natural, and I loved hearing the richness of the instruments. The best part was my friends greeting me as I stepped down from the podium.
Do you plan to continue your studies in music?
I am sitting my GCSEs this summer and plan to return to Portsmouth High School in September in the Sixth Form to study A Levels in English, music and physics. Music will always be at the heart of my future. I can’t imagine a career without it whether that’s writing, performing or teaching. I love performing at open mics in Portsmouth and London, and the Music Department at Portsmouth High School has embraced me with open arms. It has given me so many opportunities, including running a song‑writing club for Year 7 students.
Who are your favourite composers?
My favourite composers range from Chopin to Schubert. The emotional power of classical music is incredible. If I hear a chord from a classical piece, it literally feels like rays of sunshine are filling my heart.
