Musical feast served up at the Summer Concert

Last night saw our Summer Concert, with various ensembles raising the roof of the Barbirolli Hall once again. Kicking off proceedings, the First Orchestra played Habenara and Toreador’s song from Carmen which set the tone for an evening of high-quality performances in a range of styles. The Jazz Band, Gospel Choir, Junior Choir and both orchestras were on top form, interspersed with excellent performances from smaller ensembles and soloists and excerpts from the recent Lower School production of 'Annie'. Outside the hall, a natural sculpture was on display, designed and created by Year 8 and 9 Art Master Class students.

The first half of the concert concluded with a tribute to David Bowie: a performance of 'Life on Mars' by the Rock Band, ably assisted on lead vocals by a special guest. Mr Turner bore an uncanny resemblance to the late star in his blue nylon suit, face paint and orange wig. And yes, there is photographic evidence which can be found below.

Special mention must also go to Gaetan Buisson, Year 8, who stepped in to replace the Boys’ Choir who were unable to perform because of illness, and wowed the audience with his version of the famous guitar solo, Parisienne Walkways by Gary Moore. At the end of the evening, Miss Stevens broke the exciting news that on July 8th 2017, the school will be performing the Verdi Requiem at the Watford Colosseum, perhaps the largest musical project ever embarked upon in the school’s history. Many thanks, as ever, to the performers and staff who put on another superb evening’s entertainment.