As the new academic year gets into full swing, musical activities and events have begun apace across both Junior and Senior schools.
Pupils in Year 7, the newest members of the senior school, have embarked on the Y7 Instrument Scheme, an introduction to the vast range of instruments to explore, including woodwind, brass, strings and piano.
In events open to all senior pupils, Colfe’s was delighted to host a singing workshop delivered by National Youth Choir Vocal Leaders. National Youth Choir workshops aim to increase confidence in singing and are always met with enthusiasm from Colfe’s students, particularly the Senior Choir, who have a busy repertoire of concerts and performances ahead.
The event was followed by a Blues and Roots Jazz workshop for both senior and junior pupils, offering an exploration of jazz improvisation with workshops led by the Blues and Roots Ensemble, culminating in an evening concert.
Junior pupils have enjoyed plenty of exciting musical projects already this term, including the National Youth Choir and Thames Festival. 20 Junior School pupils were selected to take part in the Kids’ Choir – which has been a centrepiece of ‘Totally Thames’, part of the Mayor’s Thames Festival over the past 20 years. Pupils have been busy rehearsing the eight songs to be performed and were lucky enough to be conducted by musician Robert Frostick and sing with the 400 children involved from primary schools across London.
Pupils in Years 5 and 6 are also looking forward to their own National Youth Choir workshop, which, like the senior event, aims to encourage confidence through fun musical games and musicianship challenges.
Head of Music in the Junior School Mrs Sheila Smith said: “We have had an exciting and enriching start to the term. The Thames Festival concert was a resounding success and the children had an unrivalled opportunity to broaden their musical horizons, experience the joys of singing and performing in a group, and have developed broader key skills such as self-confidence and teamwork.”
Director of Music Mr Tim Newberry said, “The autumn term has already been packed with some fantastic musical events, including many opportunities for pupils to discover instruments and musical genres that are new to them. Watching our new Year 7 pupils embark on the Instrument Scheme is always a joy, and we look forward to seeing their progress in the variety of instruments. We now look forward to the events coming up, including two Trinity Laban Recital performances, the Autumn Concert in November, and the Winter Concert and Carol Service as we approach Christmas.”
