Setting off after a long summer term, I think we were ready for a trip to the South of France. Over forty of my peers were playing in Oundle School Jazz Orchestra one and two, and we had rehearsed eighteen pieces to perform across three concerts. The bus drive to the South of France took two days, departing June 30th at 15:00 and arriving on Monday July 1st at 13:30. The overnight element of the journey was slightly daunting but the promise of a wonderful week was on the horizon and so we strapped ourselves in and spent the next day enjoying a long sleep, watching film after film and talking with friends. To my surprise, it actually went very smoothly, despite trying to brush our teeth in a French service station, which was definitely a first not to be repeated… On arrival at La Bastide des Joncas, we immediately made the short walk down to the beach where we spent an hour cooling off and relaxing. Afterwards, we did a quick rehearsal and then disappeared to our rooms.
During the week our itinerary mainly consisted of exploring local towns, and then in the afternoon performing. On the morning of 2nd July, the group’s first stop was in Arles, a picturesque coastal town. There, we investigated the narrow streets, trying not to spend all our money on the many enticing bakeries and cafés. On the journey to Arles, we were told about their Roman Amphitheatre, something which it seemed Arles was particularly proud of, but despite one of our teacher’s best efforts we couldn’t all pass as her children and get into the ruin. Later that day was our first concert in Le Sanary Sur Mer, a place filled with a very mediterranean atmosphere and a lovely view over their port. After a quick drink, OSJO 2 were first up to play, in a bandstand positioned with a view over the town centre. Our Head of Music had a quick go at an introduction in French, and we were off. Opening with I got Rhythm, before long, we had finished our eight pieces, leaving the stage for OSJO 1.
After a welcome sleep, we spent the following morning in Cassis. When dropped off by the coach, we had the nice surprise of being greeted by a ‘petit train’ which speedily climbed us up into the town centre. There we split into groups and adventured around the maze of shops and cafes. We were very lucky, and found a quiet beach where we had a wonderful time relaxing in the sun, and attempting to skim a few stones, although I did not quite manage this to my friend’s standard. That afternoon was our second concert in Aix en Provence, where we also played in the town centre surrounded by hugely decorated buildings, and this time, we played to even bigger crowds.
The next day was to be our last day in the South of France before venturing up into Paris. We spent the morning in Avignon, known for its historical significance. Although none of us entered any one of its museums, I can say that I did enjoy a hot panini on the steps of the Pope’s Palace. That night was our last concert, and my favourite. Instead of playing in a large town centre, we played in an enclosed courtyard surrounded by beautifully carved statues as the sun set, enjoying what would be one of the fondest memories I have of the trip.
The next day was spent driving up to Paris, where we were all looking forward to our treat, organised by Mrs Hudson: a day in Disneyland Paris. I’d never really been to a place like this before, so I wasn’t sure what to expect but to my surprise, I loved it. We spent the day flying around mountains and zooming through tunnels. The fire work display in the evening was a perfect way to round off a trip which I wasn’t going to forget.
