29 January 2019
In his welcome, Director of Music, Mr John Hargreaves, said what a lovely start to the musical year this annual event is – and then qualified its inaugural position as he recalled the House Festival heats the previous Friday that had led up to it. He reminded us that the purpose of both is to celebrate music but that, occasionally, adding a bit of excitement with House points – not to mention cups and trophies – is rather fun. And a fun – and impressive – evening it certainly was, comprising thirteen solo performances and six duets or ensembles; seven different instruments, including voice; pieces written by eighteen different composers (we enjoyed a ‘Debussy double’). The repertoire ranged from mid-18th century Handel to 21st century Pasek and Paul, and included a less-familiar-to-many, and delightful, cello duet written by Chinese composers Chen and He.
What a lot to consider, therefore, for guest adjudicator Katie Molloy, renowned guitarist and teacher, and former music scholar, at Beechwood Sacred Heart School. After much note taking and a post-performance discussion with Mr Hargreaves, Katie said what a privilege it had been to enjoy such an incredible programme and a superb standard of musicianship. Mr Hargreaves then announced the runners up and winners, and Katie presented the awards. The award for Most Outstanding Musician went to flautist, Leila, who really had hypnotised the audience with her playing of Ian Clarke’s Hypnosis. A full list of awards is shown below.
Most Outstanding Musician – Leila, Year 10
Most Promising Musician Overall – Olivia, Year 9
Most Promising Musician Grades 1-4 – Katie, Year 7
Most Outstanding Vocalist – Katie, Year 7
Best Ensemble Performance – Blanca and Sephora, Year 7 (Runners Up: Carina, Angel and Tracey, Lower Sixth)
Best Wind Performance – Leila, Year 10 (Runner Up – Caitlin, Year 7)
Best String Performance – Oliva, Year 9 (Runner Up – Cindy, Year 8)
Best Piano Performance – Sophia, Year 8 (Runner Up – Clemmie, Year 7)
House Cup – Barat
