Bronwen Maggs and Claire Wisener update us on the Orchestra’s preparations for the final concert in Germany…

CUSO tour, Day 6, Strasbourg

“Yesterday, Cardiff University Symphony Orchestra made their way across the German border and spent their time exploring the beautiful city that is Strasbourg. We took advantage of the chance to snack on macaroons and mille-feuille and we visited the famous Strasbourg Cathedral, the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Strasbourg.

“Clarinettist, Julie, who has joined us for the tour but who studies at the Conservatoire De Strasbourg, took the opportunity to show us around her campus. In Strasbourg, the ways in which German and French history and culture coincide are fascinating to observe: There was much to see, to do and to learn. One or two of us got lost along the way, venturing off track before jumping on a tram that would take them even further from where they wanted to be. This aside,  we’ve thoroughly enjoyed ourselves.

“A visit to Strasbourg would not have been complete without a visit to the cathedral and a look at the astronomical clock which can be found inside. The Gothic cathedral is well-known for its stunning appearance and breath-taking size. We were not disappointed. The astronomical clock was beautiful and fascinating: The intricacy of the mechanism and of the artwork and ornaments that accompanied it was astonishing. It is the general consensus among everyone on tour that our visit to the cathedral will be remembered as one of the highlights of the week.

“Today we are in Baden-Baden where our final concert is to take place. We have been on a very interesting tour of the Festspielhaus, Germany’s largest opera and concert house, and now we wait in anticipation for it to be time for CUSO to perform in what will hopefully be another very successful concert. The Kurhaus Casino; the venue for the final concert is spectacular and the orchestra are sounding better than ever before. It is set to be a wonderful evening.”