A packed Music Centre, indicated by the slew of peering eyes over the railings of the upstairs overflow, turned out for the College Middle School Music Showcase. Instead of simply an orchestral performance, or a rock band takeover, the audience was treated to a tasting platter of items from all our music groups.

As guests took their seats, they were greeted by a full orchestra ready to welcome them to the night with the rich sounds of Frank Erickson and Alex Lithgow. The Symphonic Band, headed by Mr Matt Baker and Mr Tom Chester, opened the night, filling the Music Centre with colour and vibrancy in their playing.

In true Saint Kentigern fashion, the 2nd Pipe Band followed the orchestral performance with their familiar, rhythmic sounds. It is an ode to our Scottish heritage to be able to put together more than one full Pipe Band, as most schools scrape to pull together one. We proudly continue to support tradition as music evolves with the times.

Switching gears from the instrumental music, our Kentatonix Choir sang a beautiful adaptation of ‘I Sing Because I’m Happy.’ They were followed by the Stage Band, an ensemble of saxes and brass, bass, and keys that played two smooth pieces that no doubt would’ve had hips swinging if it were a standing show! The String Ensemble followed with a triad of tunes from ‘Carnival of the Animals’ by Saint-Saens. The sound quality in their performance was certainly indicative of hours of practice at home and school.

The final performance of the first half was by the Junior Jazz Combo, made up of some of our best brass players in the middle school. Directed by Mr Albert Lee, they played two pieces before the five-minute interval.

The night’s second half left everything pre-nineteenth century in the dust as five of our Rock Bands took over the stage to jam to their favourites. From ‘Skater Boi’ by Avril Lavigne to Call Me by ‘Blondie,’ the showcase turned rock’ n roll concert went full headbanger. 

We are so proud of our student’s hard work in a year we were uncertain any live performances would happen! Thank you to our directors, tutors, and staff managers: Mr Daniel Baard, Ms Hayley Kim, Mr Geordie McCallum, Miss Mary Lin, Mr Tim Baker, Mr Hugo Moore, Ms Michelle Childers and Mr Glen Mortenson. We also acknowledge the parents for drop-offs, pick-ups, and hours of listening to the repeats on the journey to some outstanding performances.

We look forward to seeing your familiar faces at next year’s music events as we continue to go from strength to strength as a Middle School music programme.

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