This week, our Reception and Key Stage 1 children treated families and staff to a joyful and wonderfully varied concert, showcasing the breadth of their musical learning and their growing confidence as performers.
The concert began with our talented Year 2 string players. Class 2B’s String Orchestra opened the programme, with the ’cellists performing A Blues and violins playing Two in a Boat; both played with precision, care and sensitivity. The full ensemble then came together for an energetic and exciting performance of Lift Off.
Next up was Class 2J’s String Orchestra. Their ’cellists delivered a catchy performance of A-nother Blues, followed by a lively version of Jim Along Josie from the violins. Their ensemble piece, Fast Lane, brought a burst of energy to the stage – a fitting conclusion to the impressive Year 2 string performances.
Year 1 then took to the stage with their choir performance of You’ve Got a Friend in Me by Randy Newman. Sung with charm and heart, it was a touching reminder of the friendships growing among the children in these early years.
Reception’s drumming ensembles were next, with Class RJ performing Walking Through the Woods. Their careful use of different drum strokes and dynamic control was impressive for such young musicians. Class RK followed with When I Bang My Drum by London Rhymes, delivered with rhythmic confidence and infectious enthusiasm.
Year 2 returned to the stage with their choir performance of Truly Scrumptious, bringing character and sweetness to this much-loved song from Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. Their singing was truly excellent!
Then came the Year 1 Recorder Choir, who showed real musical discipline and skill in their two pieces: the beautiful Tallis Canon and the jazzy Five Jive by Sarah Watts. Their coordination and tone were a credit to their hard work. A huge well done to Year 1 who have achieved far beyond expectation with their recorder playing this year.
Reception Choir followed with The Mouse and the Lion, a storytelling song by Julia Donaldson that the children performed with great expression and delight.
To close the concert, the audience was treated to a surprise appearance by the staff choir, who performed a heartfelt rendition of You’ll Be in My Heart from Tarzan. The warmth and joy in the room was palpable.
Finally, all of the children joined together in a massed choir for a joyful and uplifting finale, singing In the Jungle, Lavender’s Blue, and Let’s Go Fly a Kite. Their combined voices filled the hall and brought the concert to a wonderful and magnificent close.
We would like to say a huge thank you to Vanessa Smith, Sophie Nash, and Belinda Corsi for their dedicated work on the instrumental schemes. Special thanks also go to the entire staff team for their support and encouragement – these moments would not be possible without you. And of course, a massive congratulations to all of the children for their enthusiasm, courage, and brilliant music-making.
Miss Houlder, Director of Music
