Performing Arts

Music News

I have been delighted with the way our music students have continued to work on their art-form during this disrupted term. All the reports I have heard have been that most girls have embraced the challenges of learning an instrument on-line. I think we are all looking forward to coming back together to perform in a live setting, whatever format that may take.  The musicians' reward will come in the beautiful Tullow Performing Arts building, which will really set a focus for all of our musicians. It is very exciting sitting here watching the preparations for all of our students' return in a week and a half.

In the meantime, we have organised some virtual soirees for the end of the semester to replace the two nights we normally have where parents can get the chance to hear what has been happening in lessons. I would guess most of you would be thoroughly aware of every note that has been played at home but it is really good for the girls to present a performance. 

We will be keeping each soiree to the single instrument eg: guitar, brass but those who have less numbers will join together. Most concerts will have no more than ten performers. Please make a note of the night your daughter's performance will be shown. We really welcome you to be present for the concert. Your daughter will be sent an invitation to a zoom meeting like in her music lessons.

Virtual Soiree Nights  June 2nd- 5th 2020

Tues 2nd June   7.30pm        Voice / Piano –Mrs  Batterham, Ms Marcou

 Wed 3rd June    5.00pm        Sax /Clarinet – Mr Vague, Ms Blount

                                 7.30pm        Brass – Ms  Addis  

                                 7.00pm        Flute – Ms Vallins / Ms Budgen

                                 7.00pm        Violin/ Drums   Ms Kouznetsove  & Mr  Anderson-Vague

Thurs 4th June   7.00pm        Guitar – Mr Yarosh

Year 7 / 8 Band Classes

There are several exciting projects coming to an end in the Year 7 and 8 class band program. As you are no doubt aware, all of the girls continued with their instrument tuition through the lockdown. Each student has uploaded a video of themselves playing We Will Rock You for a class youtube video. This is no mean feat after only a term and a half of learning an instrument and we have been very impressed with the way the girls have taken on their own learning at home. I look forward to the final products for the five classes. I'm not looking forward to the editing!

School Ensembles

Similar projects are underway with the Stage Band, Concert Band and HONK doing recordings of their work across this term replacing what would have been the June Winter Concert in Kennedy Hall. There have been virtual rehearsals running right across the lockdown and both Mr Vague and myself are very grateful for the support and dedication of our musicians. Their reward is a lovely brand new music building to come back to. It will be great to hear live sounds again. The internet has made rehearsing possible but it is nowhere near the same experience as live sound.

I'd really like to thank all the parents who have continued to support our girls and their teachers through this difficult time. Music plays a big part in everyone's life and it is made more apparent now that live music is very difficult to perform. To have music in the house is a blessing and one we are all thankful for. Let it continue!

Mr Bernie Hickey

Music Learning Leader