4SH's musical journey to the Bell Percussion Warehouse

On Wednesday, 26th February, Ms Forbes and the students of 4SH went on an exciting and immersive musical journey to the Bell Percussion Warehouse in Tottenham Hale. Bell Percussion work in partnership with the London Symphony Orchestra (LSO) in supplying world class percussion to the major orchestras and musicians of the world. The visit provided the children with a unique opportunity to explore the vast world of orchestral percussion, gain insight into music-related careers, and even try their hands at playing professional-grade instruments.

The experience was both eye-opening and educational, as students were introduced to the workings of an orchestra and the vital role percussion plays within it. We arrived in the rain and some were allowed to shelter in the LSO’s tour truck that has sleeping quarters, a toilet and temperature-controlled compartments for the different instruments. The truck has travelled all over the world and housed some of the world’s most precious instruments. Inside the warehouse we were then given an engaging discussion on orchestral structures run by the team at LSO and Bell Music, where students participated in identifying instrument families and learning about the broad range of percussion instruments (even bath tubs!) used in orchestral settings.

A particular highlight of the trip was meeting professional musicians who shared their experiences and insights into the world of music as a career. This segment broadened the children’s perspectives on the many paths one can take in the music industry, from performing to music librarianship and being a technician. The students were captivated by personal stories, learning how these professionals followed their passion for music and turned it into a career.

One of the most exhilarating aspects of the visit was the hands-on experience. Students had the rare opportunity to play a diverse range of orchestral percussion instruments, including snare drums, marimbas, and the awe-inspiring Mahler hammer. They explored rhythm, dynamics, and coordination, culminating in a collaborative performance of a song they had been learning at school—now brought to life on grander, richer-sounding instruments. The sheer scale and quality of these professional-grade instruments added an extra layer of excitement and inspiration to their performance.

Throughout the visit, the students demonstrated curiosity and enthusiasm, asking questions and engaging in activities designed to deepen their understanding of music. The event not only enriched their knowledge of percussion instruments but also inspired them to consider the many possibilities within the world of music, whether as performers, composers, or behind-the-scenes contributors.

The trip to Bell Percussion Warehouse was an incredible success, leaving the children inspired and excited about music. It was a truly unforgettable experience that reinforced the power of music as both an art form and a career path. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Al Goode, Iryna Goode and the team at Bell Music and LSO who made this visit such a memorable and impactful event for the students of 4SH.