King's Hawford

5 December

Joy Fills the Room at Informal Music Concert

The Informal Concert in The Barn on Tuesday evening was a joyful celebration of new talent, festive spirit and community.

Set against the backdrop of the nativities held earlier in the day, the informal concert showcased the incredible variety of musical skills within the school, while also creating a wonderful atmosphere of uplifting support from fellow pupils and proud parents. The room was filled with warmth – not just from the soft glow of Christmas lights, but from the palpable sense of pride and encouragement that radiated from every corner.

Opening with a beautifully serene performance by a Year 3 & 4 Harp Trio – Marelia, Trixie, and Bonita-May, the tone was set for a wonderful programme of music in many varied styles.

Fabulous vocal solos were performed by Valerie, Olivia P, Florence H, Isla H, Charlotte P, Georgia B, Izzy W and Robyn who accompanied her song on the ukulele and included audience participation in her ‘Feed the World’ song. The spirit of collaboration and mutual encouragement was clearly evident.

With heartwarming and brave performances from Year 1 pupils, William on the piano and James on the harp, it was encouraging to see the younger children gaining confidence and being inspired by the older pupils. Year 2’s Clara, Georgina, Claudia, Harriet, Arlo, Rose and Cora, played super solos – some performing in their first concert.

George and Arthur in Year 3 played their guitars clearly and Minnow and Mia were polished in their piano pieces. Year 4’s delighted the crowd with Bonita-May and Bonnie’s harp solos sitting prettily between William performing on the piano, Alexander on the violin, and Rosie’s cornet solo.

Dotted through the concert, Year 5’s Amelie, Rupert and Georgia gave confident piano performances. Nina on her flute, Cassian on the drum kit and Sylvie on her trumpet brought variety to the programme. In Year 6, we heard fluent performances from Charlotte on the saxophone, Ariana on the harp, and Louis on the trumpet.

Bringing this bumper concert to a close, we heard Jasper drumming to a Paul Weller track, Austin playing a sneaky Pink Panther theme on the bassoon, and a cheerful Jingle Bells by the Year 5 and 6 violinists, wrapping up the evening on a high note.

From the delicate and peaceful tone of the opening harp trio to the rousing rendition of Year 5 & 6 violinists (Henry, Georgia, Simi,  Ellie M, Fearne), as the programme unfolded, the diversity of performances was a highlight. The level of support among the children was palpable throughout the concert.

The audience was reminded once again of the power of music to bring people together. This concert wasn’t just about the music – it was about the supportive environment, the collective pride, and the joy that fills a room when young people are encouraged to share their talents. It was a beautiful celebration of creativity, teamwork, and the Christmas spirit.

Special mention must go to the sheer number of instrumental and vocal performers, as having so many enthusiastic soloists is a real treat and testament to our dedicated team of peripatetic music teachers who have helped foster the musical growth of these students.

Keep up the great effort with your practice, children! You are doing so well and we love to hear you perform!