Gareth Malone Goes to Glyndebourne - Episode 2

As part of Opera on the BBC, Choirmaster Gareth Malone has been given the task of finding 50 teenagers from across East Sussex, to sing on the main stage of one of the world's most prestigious opera houses, Glyndebourne. In the second programme Gareth has his chorus of 50 teens. To prepare them for their time at Glyndebourne, Gareth takes his chorus to the Royal Opera House to see Puccini's La Boheme. Many know absolutely nothing about opera - it's an inspiring experience. Gareth has only six weeks of music rehearsals to teach his chorus the music and get them singing to Glyndebourne's high standards. But the music is hard. Gareth begins individual tuition with 18-year-old Stefan, the one male reserve. Stefan is fully committed and Gareth wants to see him on stage at the end, but is his singing strong enough? Two weeks in, rehearsals move on to the set. But the chorus aren't ready and miss their cues. Worried his conducting may be to blame, Gareth has a lesson from conductor Nicholas Collon. Like Stefan, 15-year-old Kiya lacks confidence with her singing, and Gareth gives her individual tuition. As the pressure increases, the boys start to lose interest - they mess around, some skive and a few leave. 16-year-old Korrel is one of the boys playing truant. Gareth tries to keep him on board as his attendance worsens. As music rehearsals draw to a close, Gareth takes his chorus to perform to Gus Christie, the owner of Glyndebourne, in the Organ Room of the old house.