The Summer Concert was outstanding, it was typical of our concerts in that here was a wide variety of ensembles performing different genres much of which were of an excellent standard.

Ella opened the concert singing Gounod’s Je Veux Vivre. Ella has a truly awesome voice, she sung brilliantly, it was one of those magical performances, a culmination of many years hard work coupled with natural talent and drive. Holly performed the last movement from Binge's Concerto for Saxophone; Holly brought out the humorous nature of the music really well. Technically this piece is very demanding both on the orchestra and on the soloist; Holly has a beautiful high register which sounded lovely in the Memorial Hall. Abagael then sung Habanera from Carmen; on a warm summer's night we could almost have been in Spain! Abs sounded wonderful with the orchestra, a really good performance.

The Military Band featured two more soloists, Charlotte played Clarinet on the Town; there are two main sections to this piece, the first demanding technical dexterity and the second a relaxed section in a blues style. Charlotte mastered both sections giving a mature and technically accomplished performance, a real treat. Tom then performed the Joyful Skeleton, dressed in a skeleton outfit Tom gave a masterly performance of this cheeky fun party piece. To be able to make something as technically difficult sound simple is a true mark of Tom's incredible technique.

All three choirs were without exception excellent; I can't choose a favourite and what a contrast of repertoire from the main choir singing Finzi’s God is Gone Up followed by Rather Be arranged by Brymer! Credit must go to Mr Marshfield for his outstanding work with our singers. The Flute Ensemble, Brass Ensemble and the Jazz Quintet were all on excellent form, the sound in particular of the flautists was excellent. The concert was brought to an end by the Big Band who performed Buddy Rich's arrangement of Norwegian Wood. It was a last solo for Mr Lowry on guitar who is retiring, he has helped the band on numerous occasions for which we are most grateful. The final drum solo from Tom was magnificent, really well-crafted and very exciting - a brilliant way in which to end such an excellent evening. My congratulations to all the young musicians involved and to their teachers. A video of the concert can be seen below alongside a photo album from the evening.

David Gorodi - Director of Music