We are excited to present an engaging online assembly featuring two highly acclaimed musicians and the award-winning children’s author and illustrator James Mayhew!
This event introduces the world of classical music in a fun, accessible and cross-curricular session, combining storytelling, live illustration, and superb music performed on violin and piano.
Featuring popular works by Rimsky-Korsakov, Stravinsky and Saint-Saëns, and traditional tales from Eastern Europe and Asia.
FAQs
When:
- Friday 27th February 2026, 1.30pm
What online platform will be used for this assembly?
- Teams (you will be sent a link 24 hours before the assembly)
Who is this assembly suitable for?
- This assembly is appropriate for key stage 2 students
How long is the online assembly?
- The online assembly will last approximately 45 minutes
The online assembly will be led by James Mayhew and Caroline Speca, who will:
- Introduce the stories behind famous classical works
- Explain how music can tell a story
- Caroline will talk about her 300 year old Italian violin, how it works and how she became a world-class performer
- James will illustrate the stories during the music performance. Children can watch the art evolve in time to music, underpinning how the music communicates element of a story.
- Invite a Q&A
Register
About James Mayhew
James has been writing and illustrating books for children for over 30 years. His best-selling titles include the “Katie” series and “Ella Bella Ballerina”. More recently, “Once Upon A Tune” has been inspired by his work with orchestras and musicians, presenting family concerts that make music truly accessible, inspiring new audiences to hear live music. This is a project he now takes into classrooms wherever possible.
About Caroline Speca
Caroline began her musical journey with the Suffolk Youth Orchestra before studying violin at the Guildhall School of Music. She achieved her dream job performing with the Orchestra of the Royal Opera House for 14 years. Now based in Suffolk, she shares her love of music in schools, hospitals, and care homes. An ambassador for Britten Pears Arts, she also collaborates with Britten Sinfonia and runs her Musical Lifelines project in Bungay.
About Nathan Williamson
Nathan has composed and performed all over the world with artists including Nicola Benedetti, Piano Circus, Heath Quartet, Guy Johnston, James Gilchrist, Mahogany Opera, London Youth Opera, and the Daejeon Philharmonic. He has made several landmark recordings for SOMM and Lyrita. He founded and directs the Southwold Music Trust, placing music at the centre of his hometown of Southwold, on the Suffolk coast.