In 1963, the Yehudi Menuhin School (YMS) was established by violinist Yehudi Menuhin to nurture musically gifted children worldwide. Presently, it offers a comprehensive education to 90 students between the ages of 11 and 19, focusing on strings, piano, and classical guitar.
Starting from the 2023/24 academic year, British clarinetist Julian Bliss and British composer Sally Beamish will take on the roles of Artist in Residence and Composer in Residence at YMS, respectively.
In his capacity as Artist in Residence, Bliss will collaborate with students to perform Messiaen's Quartet for the End of Time during a Remembrance Day Showcase on November 11, 2023. Additionally, he will feature his jazz Septet in the closing performance of YMS's Autumn/Winter season. Bliss recently made his debut at the Menuhin Hall by playing Schumann's works alongside violist and conductor Maxim Rysanov and pianist Dasol Kim.
As Composer in Residence, Beamish will engage directly with students to prepare for concerts. She will also conduct seminars and workshops discussing her career and compositions, offering guidance to aspiring composers at YMS. Her compositions will be showcased in various concerts throughout the year. Furthermore, as a skilled violist, Beamish will perform her Partita for String Octet alongside YMS students on December 11, 2023, as part of The Menuhin Hall's Winter Festival.
Julian Bliss expressed his honor at becoming Artist in Residence at The Yehudi Menuhin School, aiming to provide students with experience in playing an instrument not traditionally taught at the school. Sally Beamish eagerly anticipates meeting the students, sharing ideas, and performing the Partita for String Octet at The Menuhin Hall.
YMS's director of music, Ashley Wass, expressed gratitude for the support of Julian and Sally and looks forward to an exciting collaboration that will enrich the education of YMS students. Wass particularly highlighted Sally Beamish's significant contributions to his professional life and Julian Bliss's exceptional talent as a clarinetist, which will serve as a valuable example for the YMS community. He eagerly anticipates welcoming both of them to the school.
