AN EXCITING EVENING was had by a packed audience on both Wednesday 27 and Thursday 28 March. Both astounding successes, the two Year 7 Showcases delighted all who attended, and the progress that students have made since starting their instrument in September, as part of the Instrumental Programme at Wilson’s, was tangible. It is hard to think that these students had not played their instruments before starting the school! Mr Walters, who presented a number of music and form tutor awards at the close of the events, commented on the quality of sound and said he was confident that the performances were the best he has heard to date. James, now in Year 12, who started playing the oboe in 2013 as a year 7 on the programme, opened the concert with a beautiful rendition of Handel’s stately Sonata in B flat Major, which is a piece he is preparing for his diploma (the qualification higher than grade 8). A series of small ensemble performances followed this and were delivered with aplomb by students in year 7 on their new instrument.

The culmination of the evening came in the form of the joint Year 7 Wind Band, and Year 7 school of singers, Schola Cantorum, performing Don’t Stop Believin’. Mr Elsom would like to thank all staff and parents who so positively enthuse the students in music-making. In his closing words, Mr Cole applauded the hard work and dedication of the students and all those who encourage the students in their musical endeavours. He was most impressed by the musicianship but also the respectful behaviour, and explained how proud he was of all those students who took part.