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News
‘Music does a lot of things for a lot of people. It’s transporting. It can take you right back to the very moment certain things happened in your life. It’s uplifting, it’s encouraging, it’s strengthening. It is a gift. It is a gift from God to be enjoyed.’
Aretha Franklin
The many and varied music groups are part of the life of the Boys’ School. Whether it’s the Pipe Band at ceremonial occasions, our choirs performing at Chapel or our music ensembles and soloists sharing their talent at assemblies, shows or evenings such as this, or simply the rehearsals that go on in the music rooms – wherever and however it’s performed, musical talent abounds at the Boys’ School, and our school is richer for it!
It’s hard to imagine a world without music, yet it’s not often we stop and truly listen. That’s what makes an evening such as this truly special, taking the time to appreciate the music our boys have to offer.
Hosted by students, Austin Alcock and George Wilby, the evening opened with the largest ensemble, the Symphonic Orchestra, playing a rousing ‘See the Conquering Hero.’ This group has experienced instrumentalists playing alongside those who are just beginning, to give the new players support and experience.
The evening was filled with some fantastic solo performances from our more accomplished young musicians, showing a depth and breadth of talent on a range of instruments, as well as small group ensembles. From piano to violin, trumpet and guitar, and performances from the flute group, recorder consort, jazz ensembles, guitar group and the chamber orchestra, there was much to enjoy – and a surprise or two! In an evening of skilful performance, diminutive Year 2 student, Oliver Mar’s performance of ‘La Tarantella’ on the piano was both a surprise and a delight!
Our choral programme has always been strong, producing many fine singers as witnessed during this year’s performance of Treasure Island. We once again enjoyed one of the items from the show before hearing from our choirs. First to the stage were the Saint Kentigern Singers; a choir for those who simply love to sing!
Soloist, Charles Adams sang ‘Danny Boy’ and we learnt that he is currently on stage in the season of ‘La Boheme.’
Our Performers’ Choir followed on with a polished performance showing why they earned Silver at this year’s Auckland-wide choral competition, Kids Sing. Both choirs also joined as one to deliver a powerful rendition of Leonard Cohen’s ‘Hallelujah.’
Deputy Principal, Mr Grayson Aspinall rounded out the evening speaking about passion and the need to find something in life we are passionate about. There’s no question these boys are passionate about their music making!
The evening closed with the Jazz Band who set toes tapping and hums humming as the audience left! What a fantastic evening!
Our thanks to music staff, Mrs Janet Grierson and Mrs Georgina Jarvis, and all those who accompanied the boys. We wish all the groups going forward to the Lewis Eady Competition soon all the best of luck!
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