The Armed Man: A Mass for Peace

Around 200 Colfeians performed Karl Jenkins’ inspirational and uplifting work The Armed Man – A Mass For Peace at the historic St Alfege’s Church in Greenwich.

This special event marked the first public performance of Colfe’s Combined Choir which brings together pupils, teachers, parents, Old Colfeians and friends of the school.

Director of Music Emma Bond said, “I was particularly delighted that many people from the surrounding area joined us to watch the performance and with the choir, soloists and orchestra sounding like professionals it superbly showcased the exacting, high musical standard that Colfe’s achieves.

“The Armed Man is a powerful work that tells a compelling story of the consequences of war and we held our performance in November – the month of Remembrance – to show how it is as resonant today as it was in 2000 when it was dedicated to the victims of Kosovo.”

Soloist Francesca Rameaux (Year 10) said, “I had not heard this piece before we started to rehearse and found it very emotional. I felt very much part of a bigger Colfe’s family and seeing the audience enjoying our performance was an amazing feeling.”

Colfe’s Chair of Governors Matthew Pellereau, whose wife Philippa performed in the choir, said, “Different generations and aspects of the school’s community were represented and more than did justice to this powerful musical work. I thoroughly enjoyed sharing in this inspiring night.”

Headmaster Richard Russell said “This ranks with the best musical performances I have seen at Colfe’s in the last 10 years. I was particularly pleased to be back at St Alfege Church in Greenwich – the venue contributed to the success of the evening as did the fact that no fewer than 70 of our newest Year 7 pupils were part of the choir”.