Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Education in Denmark
Where classical music rules It is not often you see someone picking Beethoven over the pop queen Beyoncé, but the students at OrkesterEfterskolen do. Their passion for classical music is exactly what brings together students from all around the world, no matter whether it is merely a hobby or something they want to work with professionally. By Stephanie Brink Harck | Photos: OrkesterEfterskolen
OrkesterEfterskolen offers three programmes: the Orchestra Programme, where students join a symphony orchestra; the Vocal Programme, where students have the opportunity to sing in a choir; and the Piano Programme. No matter what instrument the students play, they will have solo tuition in their chosen instrument and take courses in music theory and history. “In other words, OrkesterEfterskolen offers something for anyone who wishes to immerse themselves in classical music,” says Charlotte Faurschou, principal at OrkesterEfterskolen. According to Faurschou, attending a school where everyone is passionate about the same type of music strengthens the bonds between the students. 48 | Issue 82 | November 2015
“You could say that they have a community even before the school year starts because of their music preferences. They understand each other better. Some don’t have friends who play the same type of music, but at our school they will have plenty.” Music is such a big part of the school that it has been generously interwoven with all parts of the curriculum – with great results. The students are skilled both professionally and musically, partly because all the teachers have trained at the Academy of Music. This is something that makes Faurschou very proud and that attracts students from all around the world. Music, after all, is an international language. “We have had students from countries like Australia, Ireland and
Mexico to name but a few.” When the international students arrive they start an intensive three-month course in Danish, and soon afterwards, they get to join the Danish students in their regular classes. “Our international programme is incredibly rewarding for the students,” explains Faurschou. “You become more accepting towards other people when you know a lot about different cultures.” Travelling is also a big part of life at OrkesterEfterskolen, which gives the students an opportunity to collaborate with other musicians and perform to bigger audiences. “Standing on stage is such an experience for our students. They grow as individuals because they realise that they too have something to give the audience.”
For more information, please visit: www.orkesterefterskolen.dk