ECO to host French youth orchestra in April 2008

In the next stage of ECO's expanding programme of international links, we will welcome to Exeter a terrific youth orchestra from Exeter's twin city in France, Rennes, the capital of Brittany. The Orchestre des Jeunes de Haut-Bretagne will visit Exeter from 16-20 April 2008 to make music and get to know the city, its surroundings and its young musicians (that's us!). The orchestra has a great reputation and we are really looking forward to meeting them and playing together. The main orchestra will be accompanied by its guitar ensemble, who will also perform at our joint concerts.

The visit will include joint concerts for ECO and OJHB, a Civic Reception by the Lord Mayor, social events, and visits to some of the region's unique landscapes and attractions. The French musicians will stay with ECO families to foster friendships and international understanding.

An energetic ECO working group has planned an exciting programme - a huge "thank you" to Anne Schranz, Jean Burrows and Clare Farquharson and the many others who have contributed to the planning at all stages.

Wednesday 16 April
Visitors arrive late evening via Roscoff-Plymouth ferry.

Thursday 17 April
Civic reception hosted by the Lord Mayor of Exeter, Cathedral Chapter House
Lunch
Tour of Cathedral and shopping
Joint ECO-OJHB rehearsal
Evening with host families

Friday 18 April
Visit to Dartmoor
Joint Evening Concert: Exeter Corn Exchange, 7.30pm

Saturday 19 April
OJHB visit Bath
Evening ceilidh (or a fest noz??)

Sunday 20 April

Joint afternoon concert on Exeter Quay, 2.30pm
Devon cream tea!
Visitors depart

ECO host families: the detailed programme including timings and pick-up points has been sent out by email.