Richard, 17, kept his own personal diary and in this second extract he shares thoughts as the Orchestra face up to their first two concerts.
Wednesday
Up early here in Rome on this fourth day of the tour for compulsory visit to beach - except for The Violas who are apparently sunburned. Paddling planned, but "the lads" ensured that everyone was soaking, including my sister Helen (particu
larly good, this ). Arrived at air-conditioned concert hall, Teatro del Fonte, in Fiuggi. Three hour rehearsal, but acoustics a bit of a killer – not good for the brass. Tea is pasta and chicken - again. Mm!! First half of concert exceptionally good, but second half had too many mistakes – we must work harder tomorrow to achieve our potential. Programme included the Murray Fanfare, written by James Murray, former leader of the LYSO who is here on the tour with us – we are world premiering it three times in three days. Back at hotel at 1. 30 am. James – the new Rory Bremner? and as skilled with impressions as with composing - rang all our rooms, posing as Italian hotel receptionist annoyed by Lancashire noise - much consternation - and much amusement for us!
Thursday
Free morning. Lie in till 10.30 and had to breakfast at McDonalds (sad, really), but an easier option as I couldn't understand Italian menus (also sad, really). James and I bought Roma T shirts and 15 more appeared soon after – we are proud to be trendsetters. Two hour journey to Caprorola and concert hall on fourth floor – marimba would not fit in lift, so guess who had to help to carry it up the stairs. Acoustics much better – no need for the trombones to blast (though they do like it anyway).
Break for tea before concert – pasta and, amazingly, steak. Full concert hall and very receptive audience who demanded an encore. Back to hotel at 2.30 am. Tired, tired, tired.
Next week
Visiting the Vatican
Fighting the tiredness
Concert finale
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