OPO Outreach: ‘Noah’s Flood’ at Wood Farm Primary

Over the course of three days in March 2023, the Oxford Philharmonic held a project called ‘Opera in a Week: Noah’s Flood’ at Wood Farm Primary School in Headington. 60 students from Year 5 participated in the project, which featured workshops led by OPO and culminated in a concert.

The first two days of the event were filled with exciting music workshops that exposed the children to a variety of music styles and instruments. They had the opportunity to sing songs accompanied by the OPO musicians, create improvised percussion pieces, explore dance and movement to music, and hear informative talks about orchestral instruments.

“[My child] would come home and just talk and talk about working on this show! It was amazing to see [my child] so excited.”

Parent of a Year 5 student

These workshops were expertly led by OPO violinist Miranda Walton, supported by OPO musicians Tony Robb (flute), Rachel Byrt (viola), Jane Salmon (cello) and university student Lizzie Caird (choreography).

“This was one of the best, most well-planned and engaging music projects we’ve had.”

Year 5 teacher

On the final day, the children showcased what they had been working on in a concert of the opera they created. This opera was based on Benjamin Britten’s opera Noye’s Fludde and featured choreographed popular songs including ‘Over the Rainbow’ and ‘The Animals went in Two by Two’.

Despite having only two and a half days to prepare, the children put on a stellar performance that was attended by family and friends of the students. The concert demonstrated the children’s musical prowess and their ability to work together to create something beautiful.

“I really liked getting to play with professional musicians.”
“In a few days we all learned so much.”

Year 5 students

“Sharing the gift of music is a pleasure and privilege. During Noah’s Flood, the excitement in the room was palpable. What a joy to work with the pupils and staff at Wood Farm – a super-rewarding project.”

Miranda Walton, project leader

Educating and encouraging the love of music in the younger generations are hallmarks of the OPO’s values.

For content most suitable for primary school children, follow this link to the YouTube playlist of Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra family videos.

If you are an educator and interested in the Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra working with your students, please contact OPO Education Officer, Will Emery, at [email protected].  

If you are interested in supporting these initiatives, please get in touch at [email protected].