Over February 2009 half-term, Southampton Youth concert Sinfonia visited Edale, in the Peak district midway between Sheffield and Manchester.
Laura Collins, SYCS Leader writes:
"During half term, 45 members of SYCS went with 8 staff on an exciting four day visit to Edale in the Peak District. We stayed in a large youth hostel surrounded by beautiful countryside and were involved in many activities, including caving, rock climbing and abseiling. We also had the opportunity to enjoy the countryside with a guided walk on the Peaks.
There was of course also lots of rehearsing. We had opportunities to play in smaller groups, trying new music not normally played by orchestras, such as a medieval choir arrangement and a Beatles song. As well as this, the orchestra rehearsed for the concert on Wednesday night which was held in the village hall. Many locals attended and helped us to raise money for the refurbishment of the hall.
Everyone enjoyed their stay immensely: the youth hostel was comfortable and all the staff were helpful and friendly. I would like to thank all the SMS staff for arranging such a wonderful trip."
"The weather was excellent – fresh but not too cold, and the snow lying around on the edges allowed a little snowballing fun. The accommodation and food were excellent too, the concert in the Village Hall was well-attended and we made £100 for their rebuilding fund. The students really did behave very well throughout - even after lights out, and the team-building achieved on these courses is having a very noticeable impact. Our coach driver was extremely helpful, and no-one seemed to mind having to walk the .8 mile up and down the steep track between the coach and hostel every time we went out – even in the dark. I have to say that the YHA did volunteer mini-buses but we decided it was all part of the experience! So all-in-all I can recommend every part of our excursion to anyone else wanting a bit of a challenge."
