Musical Highnotes
As cited in the Good Schools Guide, “music is a strong point” and “ambitious” at South Hampstead, and this term has been no different.
Over the past fortnight alone, the music department has held numerous scholars’ recitals, two annual Spring concerts and a fantastic Jazz Night. Kate in the Lower Sixth, reports back on some of the high points.
‘Highlights of the Choral and Orchestral Spring Concert included solos by Lisa playing Violin Concerto in E Minor, Op. 64 by Mendelssohn alongside the symphony orchestra, and Head Girl Sascha singing V’adoro, Pupile from Giulio Cesare by Handel. Both performances were beautiful and a wonderful way to say goodbye to two of our much loved Upper Sixth musicians who we will really miss! In the Wind and Brass Spring Concert, we heard the world premiere of W.A:R.M, by Steve Gibson, performed by percussionists Astrid and Rosie. Complete with a light show and the pair of them playing 12 instruments in 5 minutes, we are all in awe at their coordination, musicality and focus – nobody could’ve premiered it better! As we enter exam season, we were also treated to a rendition of ‘I Will Survive.’ Who could argue with that, when it’s being proclaimed by 28 girls in Wind Band?!
The term ended with Jazz Night, opened and closed by Big Band. From Take Five to Hawaii Five O, their sets were so much fun. The newly formed, self-run Sixth Form saxophone quartet performed for only the second time, although no-one would’ve guessed! Every member of Junior Jazz improvised, which of course wouldn’t be possible without their reliable rhythm section. Beatrice performed two of her own beautiful and thought-provoking songs, and Iona made her debut performance with Salsera, learning songs in Spanish, and helping out with some additional percussion during the rest of the set…
A huge thank you to all the music staff who rehearse early mornings, lunchtimes and after school to make these concerts as polished and fun as they are.’
We look forward to providing our musicians with an even better stage to showcase their talents early next year, when we aim to open the doors to a state-of-the-art concert hall and performance space in our transformed Waterlow Hall. The architects and consultants are now working closely with the Music and Drama departments to finalise the detailed specification. The fundraising is progressing well thanks to huge support from all areas of our community. For more information on our Gala Dinner and how to get involved, please visit www.waterlowhall.com