It has been wonderful to have the children back in the Music School, making full use of our facilities and, in the main, having face-to-face lessons again. We hope that next term will provide even more opportunity for collective music making.
At the tail end of the third lockdown, we enjoyed two Friday ‘Zoom Concerts’, featuring many performances from instrumentalists who have impressed their teachers this term. Now a firm fixture in many people’s diaries, these will continue for a period next term, but with the added bonus of being filmed at school within year groups.
The first week back in school saw our annual visit from world music expert, Jim Bernadin. We were so pleased that he was still able to join us, and Years 3-5 enjoyed workshops on a variety of music, including the music of China, the Samba and Indian drumming. The concentration levels were high as was the sense of satisfaction of creating something totally incredible to move and dance to.
The annual Friends and Family Concert was a streamlined affair this year, with just families taking part and filming their performances at home. Items included piano duets, voice and guitar duos, violin duos, songs from ‘Hamilton’ and ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’, and even a sea shanty complete with accordion! Hopefully next year we will be able to play with friends again too, but nevertheless a fun Zoom evening was had by all.
This term’s School Concert on Zoom was testament to the hard work of all our musicians over the lockdown. An entertaining variety of performances showcased what can be achieved in even the most challenging of times. With most rehearsals taking place online, whilst the children were at home, the final three weeks of term saw a flurry of activity getting everything ready for filming. The Chapel Choir rehearsed four pieces, three performed by separate years groups and filmed at school, and a combined performance from Years 6-8 of Gary Barlow’s ‘Sing’, all filmed individually at home. Two brass ensembles from Years 6 and 7, the String Quartet, the Rock Band, and various soloists completed the evening’s entertainment. Special mention should be made of flautist Daisy Timberlake, who performed a lovely rendition of Faure’s 'Sicilienne'. She will take up a music scholarship at Canford School in September. Congratulations to all our musicians for putting on such a great show!
With orchestra parts to practice, and plenty of lines to learn for productions next term, we wish all our performers a happy and productive Easter holiday!
