Orchestras in Context: The Set Works resources                    

Orchestras in Context: The Set Works sessions are a collection of three online broadcasts and accompanying lesson plans that provide in-depth and user-friendly contextualisation of key A level set works.

Commissioned by us and performed by the Bath Phil, these licensed resources bring to life the great musical minds from the 20th and 21st centuries for your students – and all virtually!

How to book

Email inspiring.music@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk to book The Set Works sessions online broadcasts and resources for use in the classroom or at home.

​Resources are available to view from Monday 19 April 2021.

How much does it cost?

Starting at as little as £50, depending on your set-up we have several one-off licensing options for you to access these incredible resources:

  • £50: Single Licence (state schools)

  • £200: Music Education Hub Multi Licence (4+ licences)

  • £150: Independent School Licence

  • £150: International School Licence

Who are these resources for?

If you work with A level & AS level music students, or aspiring GCSE students, these resources are perfect for you. Orchestras in Context: The Set Works is an exciting resource that explores the sumptuous and fascinating sound worlds of three astounding musical minds– all available to be streamed virtually for use at home or in class.

What does Orchestra in Context include?

  • 3 online broadcasts each lasting 25 minutes, with accompanying resources to further engage your students in critical dialogue. 

  • Performance of key excerpts from the set works and wider listening examples recorded live by professional musicians and orchestra. These include: 

    • An English Sound (the New & the Old): Ralph Vaughan Williams, On Wenlock Edge

    • A Myriad of French Colours & Timbres: Debussy, Estampes

    • Flowers, Forests, Dreams & Cellos: Saariaho, Petals

  • A guide through the set works, revealing key concepts with specific musical examples explained by musicians and presenter in conversation. 

What people are saying about Orchestras in Context

In the classroom, we don’t have an orchestra at our beck and call to play examples to students, but this is a very close substitute.
— Jonathan Price, Head of Music, Redbourne Upper School
They are perfect for revision: summarising everything about each piece presented.
— A level student, Bedfordshire
It is really useful to have a section of music played, explained and analysed in a way that incorporates our key music theory principles.
— A level student, Bedfordshire

About the performances

The session was filmed live at The Grove Theatre, Dunstable, and performed live by professional musicians and orchestra by the Bath Phil.

These three 25-minute performances will guide your students through key excerpts and concepts, alongside musical examples explained by musicians.

Performances and recording were done so adhering to the coronavirus restrictions and safety measures at the time.