Autumn Concert Brings Music to Life

Over the last few weeks, King’s St Alban’s has been regularly resounding with music as our choirs and ensembles have met for their weekly rehearsals. For the music staff, September is always a nervous time as we re-form the groups for the new school year. It is a joy to welcome new musicians into the fold and it is incredibly rewarding to see how quickly they progress, stepping up into new, more demanding roles.

With that in mind, there was a real buzz of excitement and anticipation in College Hall, as parents, grandparents, teachers, and pupils gathered for our Prep School Autumn Concert

The children have been working very hard for this event throughout the term, and they really did themselves proud. The variety of music on offer was impressive, and there was something for everyone. Orchestra’s lively performance of ‘Mexican Hat Dance’ was played with great gusto, Junior Choir enthralled the audience with two contrasting pieces of storytelling: ‘I am the Wind’ and ‘Coconut Man’. Guitar Group got everyone’s toes tapping with ‘The Top Gun Theme’. String Group impressed everyone with their two contrasting pieces: ‘Ready, Steady. Go now!’ and the lyrical ‘Long, Long ago. Wind Band also contains lots of new members this year, and they really pulled out the stops with their spirited rendition of ‘Rideway Rock’, followed by a stylish performance of ‘Cha-Cha Cabano’. Senior Choir were in fine voice with two fabulous songs: ‘Believer’, and the feel-good song, ‘Friend like me’, which had everyone smiling and wanting to sing along. Our grand finale, ‘Lean on Me’ included all the children and provided a rousing end to a wonderful concert.

Our two soloists gave poised and accomplished performances. It is no mean feat to perform to such a large audience and although I am sure they were nervous, they took to the stage like seasoned professionals. Cerys (flute) took us to a quiet and beautiful place with her soothing playing of the traditional Māori song, ‘Pokarekare Ana’ and Pip (alto sax) gave a wonderful performance of the beautiful ‘Morning’ by Grieg.

This was a really super concert, and an excellent start to a year of choral and ensemble performances. It was a memorable evening. Well done everyone!