In the heat of July, AC Academy Warwick singers and Scholars had the trip of a lifetime on a four-day concert tour of Vienna, led by Armonico Consort’s founder director Christopher Monks. The visit stretched the 18 young people musically but also offered wonderful cultural, historical and educational experiences along with plenty of time to socialise.
They had the unforgettable opportunity to perform in three of the musical capital’s most spectacular venues – Peterskirche, Stephansdom and Kapuzinerkirche – singing ambitious repertoire that was performed almost entirely a cappella.
The music spanned centuries, languages and styles, from Allegri’s Miserere and Karl Jenkins’s Adiemus to Ola Gjeilo’s Northern Lights and songs by Billy Joel.
There was a chance for individuals to step forward in solos and duets, and everyone had to handle the challenges of performing in unfamiliar buildings (including singing without a rehearsal at Stephansdom!), adapting to the acoustics and carefully listening to one another to achieve the perfect sound for an audience of church visitors and international tourists.
In fact, the performance at the historic and vast Stephansdom (St Stephen’s Cathedral) was a particular highlight. Only a handful of people were present on this occasion – some in prayer and visitors who stopped to listen. This made the performance feel very intimate as the unaccompanied voices soared into the huge space, creating an atmosphere that one of the group said was “the moment I’ll never forget”.
But along with the singing, there was also plenty of time to make friends and create memories as they navigated the city’s streets, trams and trains to visit some of Vienna’s biggest attractions including the beautiful gardens and architecture of the Schönbrunn Palace, the rollercoasters of the Prater theme park and the interactive Haus der Musik.
The standard of musicianship was high, and by the end of the tour the singers felt a well-deserved strong sense of collective achievement. And the free time and shared meals enabled friendships to develop and conversations to take place across age groups and voice sections.
As the group returned to the UK, buzzing with the experience, the positive benefits remained. These included a renewed enthusiasm for singing and connection to AC Academy, confidence in forming friendships and a sense of belonging. And, of course, an unforgettable life experience.
The tour was organised by Armonico Consort in conjunction with Rayburn Tours.
