A Night of Musical Excellence: School Concert Showcases Talent and Variety

This term’s School Concert was a delightful showcase of talent, featuring the first performances of the year from most of our ensembles. The evening was filled with a variety of musical styles and impressive performances, making it a memorable event for everyone.

The concert began with the Second Orchestra playing a lively Polka by D’Albert. This ensemble, which includes pupils from the Lower Fourth and Upper Fourth experiences a turnover of about 50% of its members each year. The orchestra delivered an excellent start to the concert with some lively and confident playing that set a positive tone for the evening.

Following the orchestra, the School Choir and Lower Years Choir took to the stage. They reprised the songs they performed at a concert in the Cathedral with the Drakensberg Boys Choir in September. The choirs were in excellent voice, particularly during the song “Weeping” by Heymann, which is based on an African traditional melody. The audience was invited to join in with the song “I Just Gotta Sing” by Vango, and after a brief lesson from the Lower Years Choir, they did so with some enthusiasm and conviction!

The King’s Swingers then performed two great numbers: “Moanin’” and Michael Jackson’s “Rock with You.” This band has undergone the biggest shake-up in its 10-year history, with a large number of exceptional Upper Sixth pupils leaving in the summer and new talent stepping in. It was wonderful to hear them perform so confidently, showcasing their adaptability and skill.

Next, the two orchestras performed. The Chamber Orchestra played a Symphony by Boyce, followed by the dark and intense Prelude from the 1960s thriller “Psycho.” Although it did not include the most famous piece of music from the film, the performance was certainly dramatic and gripping. The First Orchestra followed with a delightful waltz by Dvorak, which highlighted the rich colours of the various sections of the orchestra.

The concert concluded with the Wind Band playing the theme from the classic Western “The Magnificent Seven,” followed by a dramatic piece called “Critical Mass.” This final performance showcased the energy and dynamism of the whole band, particularly the brass section, bringing the evening to a thrilling close.

Over 100 pupils from all year groups participated in the concert, making it a true celebration of the school’s musical talent. Congratulations to all the performers on an excellent evening of music.