At 4.15am on the first Monday of the summer holidays, 42 slightly bleary-eyed Carthusians and nine members of staff departed School for an early flight to Salzburg. Apart from the minor drama of one pupil missing the flight, everything went smoothly, and we arrived at Hotel Josef with plenty of time to settle in, enjoy the excellent facilities, and admire the spectacular mountain scenery.
This was an ambitious tour involving the Rock Band, Big Band, Chamber Music Strings (affectionately known as the “Cellolas”), Wind Quintet, Pop Choir, Chamber Choir, and a fully inclusive Tour Choir. The week was made possible by the meticulous planning of Mr McKee and Music Administrator Mrs Ashman-Adams, together with the dedication of the entire Music Department. Our concerts showcased the breadth of musical opportunities available at Charterhouse, from classical chamber music to rock and pop, while giving as many pupils as possible the chance to perform.
The logistical challenge was significant. Instruments and sound equipment were transported to Austria by lorry, and every tour member doubled as a roadie, helping to load, unload, and set up equipment under the ever-watchful eye of the legendary Mr Kellett. Throughout the week, the group displayed remarkable teamwork, resilience, and good humour.
Our first full day began with a Sound of Music tour of Salzburg’s famous filming locations, including Schloss Hellbrunn, Leopoldskroner Teich, and Nonnberg Abbey. Afterwards, we explored Salzburg itself and visited Mozart’s Birthplace Museum before preparing for our first concert.
That afternoon we performed in the Mirabell Gardens, another iconic Sound of Music location. Temperatures climbed into the thirties as we set up beneath a shady avenue of trees. A crowd of tourists soon gathered to enjoy a varied programme, from the Tour Choir’s Sound of Music medley to performances by our instrumental, rock, and pop ensembles. The enthusiasm and enjoyment of the performers shone through. Specialists (Sixth Formers) Robyn and Sabrina were superb comperes throughout the tour, introducing each item with confidence and flair.
Back at the hotel, the music continued. Mr Corkyn’s Wind Ensemble rehearsed their Sea Songs, and the ever-dedicated Cellolas treated listeners to Ravel’s String Quartet in F Major (specially arranged for the ensemble by Miss McGregor), while others made the most of the hotel grounds and games facilities.
The following day brought heavy rain, but not dampened spirits. Fortunately, our first stop was underground in the Berchtesgaden Salt Mines. Dressed in rather fetching miners’ overalls, we travelled through the mine by train, descended via exhilarating slides, and crossed an enchanting underground lake by boat. We then continued to the picturesque village of Hallstatt, arriving just as the rain ceased. We performed in the beautiful Hallstatt Protestant Church before returning to the hotel for a late supper.
Our next concert took place in Strobl, where a beautifully designed open-air music pavilion provided excellent acoustics and stunning views across the Wolfgangsee. Afterwards, we travelled by boat to St Gilgen before continuing to Hellbrunn Palace, where many discovered the famous trick fountains the hard way and ended the visit somewhat wetter than they had begun.
After several days in Salzburg, it was time to begin the journey to Vienna. First, however, we stopped in Kaprun for a memorable summer tobogganing experience. The mountainside monorail coaster proved an instant success. Drivers controlled their own speed, leading to very different approaches: some descended with fearless enthusiasm, while others opted for a more measured pace. Following a six-hour coach journey across Austria, we finally arrived in Vienna and settled into our new accommodation.
One of the musical highlights of the week came at St Stephen’s Cathedral, one of Vienna’s most iconic landmarks. We were honoured to contribute to the midday Mass and perform a short concert afterwards. Schola Cantorum sang Tippett’s Spirituals and Finzi’s Lo, the Full Final Sacrifice, while the Tour Choir performed Howard Goodall’s Love Divine. Singing in such a magnificent setting was an unforgettable experience.
The afternoon provided time to explore Vienna before a visit to the Haus der Musik, a fascinating museum dedicated to the history and science of music. Its interactive exhibits proved particularly popular.
On Sunday, the choir sang again during Mass at the Annakirche. Later we embarked on what was advertised as a Danube River Cruise. While the reality – a journey along the Danube Canal – was not what many had expected, it nevertheless provided an opportunity to relax, take in the city from a different perspective, and enjoy one another’s company. That evening concluded with a much-anticipated awards ceremony organised by Specialists Robyn and Sabrina, generating plenty of laughter and a few emotional farewells.
Before our flight home there was time for one final excursion to Schönbrunn Palace. Although heavy rain limited exploration of the gardens, the palace offered a fascinating insight into the grandeur of Habsburg imperial life.
As we returned home, tired but immensely proud of all we had achieved, we reflected on a week of outstanding music-making, memorable adventures, and spectacular scenery. Audience members repeatedly commented on both the quality of the performances and the obvious enjoyment with which they were delivered.
CAtherine SMITH, ARCHIVIST
Above all, the tour strengthened friendships across year groups and fostered a wonderful sense of community. It was a week that will be remembered not only for the music, but also for the camaraderie, laughter, and shared experiences that made it so special.
