The Bedford Sinfonia (BOS) opened its 2025 concert calendar in grand style at the Corn Exchange this January.
With a near-sell-out audience and a palpable buzz in the air, it was a night that reminded everyone of the magic of live music. The warm and welcoming atmosphere was matched by the mix of ages in the crowd, with an encouraging presence of younger listeners, many of whom were attending their first orchestral concert.
Under the expert baton of conductor Ian Smith, the evening was headlined by two extraordinary percussion and timpani soloists, David Hext and Rachel Gledhill. Both musicians began their journeys with the Bedfordshire Youth Music Service and have since risen to prominence as professional players and educators with some of the UK’s top orchestras and conservatoires.
Reflecting on the evening, David Hext shared his personal connection to the venue.
“What an absolute pleasure it was to play with the Bedford Sinfonia last night,” he said.
“I have so many happy memories of playing at the Corn Exchange over the last 50 years or so, and this was just another to add to that illustrious list.”
The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly Hext and Gledhill’s captivating performance of Panufnik’s Concertino for Timpani and Percussion.
Supported with great sensitivity by the Sinfonia’s strings, the duo brought the piece to life, navigating its contrasting moods with ease – from the tender lyricism of Canto 2 to the thrilling, high-energy final movement. Their performance was met with rapturous applause, a reflection of the audience’s appreciation for their artistry.
Speaking after the concert, Rachel Gledhill said: “It was a pleasure to have such a large and appreciative audience, with so many young people there.
“The varied and interesting programme, delivered with great skill by Ian Smith and the orchestra, captured the essence of the music beautifully.”
The programme itself was a masterstroke, seamlessly blending accessibility and sophistication. From the lively exuberance of Milhaud’s Le Boeuf sur Le Toit to the depth and intensity of Dvořák’s Symphony No. 7, the concert offered something for everyone.
One of the most heartwarming aspects of the evening was the presence of so many families and children, who took advantage of BOS’s initiative to make orchestral music more accessible.
Thanks to the offer of 50 free tickets for under-18s and affordable child tickets at just £5, the auditorium was alive with excitement. Children eagerly sought out the best seats, some hoping to catch a glimpse of their music teachers among the performers – an experience that will surely inspire many budding musicians.
A delightful mid-concert touch allowed children and families to meet the soloists and see the instruments up close. Audience member Roy Boness captured the mood, saying: “The young children sitting in front of me really enjoyed Le Boeuf sur Le Toit and the added bonus of going down to meet the soloists David and Rachel during the interval. Well done, BOS!”
The evening was a testament to the transformative power of music and the importance of nurturing the next generation of musicians. Youth Ambassadors from the North Beds Youth Chamber Orchestra (NBYCO) played an integral role, helping backstage and facilitating interactions between the soloists and audience members.
Carolyn Adams, a member of the orchestra, summed up the evening beautifully.
“It was amazing to welcome so many young people and families to Bedford Sinfonia’s latest concert,” she said.
“Rachel Gledhill and David Hext gave an inspirational performance, and their enthusiasm for engaging with the audience created a truly memorable, immersive experience for everyone.”
As the applause faded and the lights dimmed, one thing was clear: this was not just a concert, but a community celebration. Musical dreams were sparked, connections deepened, and Bedford’s love for live orchestral music shone brightly.
Don’t miss the next BOS concert on Saturday, 15 February at Bedford Corn Exchange.
All tickets and FREE tickets for Under 18s are available now for this next concert via the website here.
by Ann Collins
