It has been a huge few weeks for the Music department – very busy, but very rewarding.

Firstly, the Choir took part in the national Big Sing competition, performing at the Town Hall on Friday, 9th June.  They performed to a high standard and were praised for their tone and intonation.  It was their first performance since Covid years made it difficult to rehearse and meet, so we are all very proud of them.

The Jazz Band and Clarinet Ensemble performed a selection of Music at one of our school assemblies – music from Classical to Jazz.  It was a good opportunity for the students to play to (what can be) a critical audience and the performance was used as a practice for important performances to come.

We have been working really hard this year to prepare for competitions and raise the standard of each group.

On Monday, 12th June the Clarinet Ensemble (Tessa Marshall, Laura Powley, Jess Borcherds and Ella McNicholl) performed a selection of Music at the National Chamber Music Competition.  They have been preparing music for most of this year and it was a first visit to the competition for this group. They played very well, with confidence and panache, and we are very proud of them to have handled the performance so confidently.

The Orchestra attended our annual camp to Living Springs on Wednesday, 14th June. It is always an enjoyable trip, with lots of practice, fun and lots of food to keep us going!  They made really good progress with three pieces – Mozart, Strauss and a piece by Italian composer Respighi.  By the end they were all shattered and looking forward to the weekend.

Next up is Jazz Quest at the beginning of next term. 

Derren Coles HOD Music.