Music News - October 2021

It’s been wonderful to get back to some sense of normality in the Music School, with rehearsals now in full swing for what we hope will be the first live School Concert in two years on 19th November. All of our choirs and ensembles will be in action and it promises to be a fantastic evening of music – be sure to put it in your diaries. Alongside concert rehearsals, the Chapel Choir has also been starting to prepare repertoire for their tour to Edinburgh in April. 

Some of our string players enjoyed a day at Lancing College recently, taking part in workshops with the music staff which culminated in a performance in their magnificent school chapel. Music practice can often be quite a solitary process, so being able to work with other like-minded young musicians to produce a performance is always rather special. 

Meanwhile, closer to home, our music staff got together to perform ‘Music for an Autumn Evening’. This concert, which looks set to become an annual event, was the first in our newly refurbished classroom/recital room. The evening comprised of solos, duets and other ensembles, with music ranging from Bach to Gershwin. 

All being well, there is plenty to look forward to over the coming weeks. Apart from the School Concert, highlights include the Advent Carol Service at Boxgrove Priory on Sunday 28th November and the postponed production of Hairspray on Friday 10th December – don’t miss it!

Please consult the Music Diary for full details of all the exciting events happening next half term.  Coming up soon...

Friends and Family Concert, Wed 10th November, 6.30pm:  Over half term why not get together as a family (grandparents as well perhaps?) and prepare an item for this concert?  It could be the simplest of piano duets or something more elaborate – this annual event is always a splendid affirmation of all that music-making is about.  Last year’s concert, done over Zoom, was fantastic despite the complications of lockdown – this year we look forward to enjoying a feast of music-making in person.

School Concert, Fri 19th November, 6.30pm: The Chapel Choir, Senior Choir, Junior Choir, Orchestra and various other ensembles and soloists will delight you with a diverse array of performances.  Our staff performer at this term’s concert will be Gerry Berkley, our percussion teacher, who will be joined by Mr Allum in a spectacular display of percussive wizardry.  Full programme details and arrangements for the evening will be available nearer the time.

Autumn Concert by music staff at Westbourne House
Autumn Concert by music staff at Westbourne House
Autumn Concert by music staff at Westbourne House
Autumn Concert by music staff at Westbourne House
Lancing Day
Lancing Day