Last Thursday, the entire Wind Band and Odyssey Big Band made their way to the Horniman Bandstand. In the morning, it had just rained, and this created a cool and calm atmosphere, setting us up for our annual performance. We knew that no matter what, we would play our hearts out!

At 9.20am, we assembled in the Britton Centre, all lined up, ready to be registered. We were accompanied by our lovely Dr Clayden, who was our conductor; Dr Burton, the Director of Music; Mr Kramer, conductor of the Odyssey Big Band; Mr Elwood, an excellent saxophone player for both the bands, and Mrs Straw.

After a short wait, we took on the 154 to West Corydon and then the 197, which was a bit more crowded. More of us had to stand, but giving way to the public is part of a Wilsonian’s moral code.

When we arrived at the bandstand, we put together our instruments and had a quick practice, before we were ready for the concert. It was not a daunting experience, as I had been here last year, and I had a good understanding of how this would work. I was in the Wind Band with my clarinet. We were performing six pieces:

● Highlights from Aladdin ● Greatest Showman ● A Billy Joel Portrait ● Defying Gravity from Wicked ● Theme from 'Family Guy' ● Selections from 'Hairspray'

My personal favourite was Greatest Showman because the arrangement was exquisite! After both bands had finished, we had lunch, and a short break. During that break, a couple of my friends and I went to get ice cream at the cafe.

Of course, afterwards, we went to the Horniman Museum, filled with old instruments including a 1905 clarinet in the German system, and also an overstuffed shark.

After arriving back at school, we helped Mr Lissimore and the rest of the music department to put away all the musical equipment brought in the minibus. This included amps, drum kits and a lot of music stands.

All in all, the Horniman Bandstand was great fun, and a true embodiment of Wilsonian spirit of “Non Sibi Sed Omnibus”, as this entire concert would not be possible without the efforts of everybody involved!

Rohan (Year 9)