Music
Music
Music plays a vital role in Lower School life. We strongly believe in the benefits that it can bring to every pupil, developing their skills in the classroom and in the numerous music groups that meet each week.
Instrumentalists can join one of two string orchestras, wind band, Hot Air, recorder clubs, guitar club or percussion group, all of which are led by musical specialists. We consider that singing is central to a musical education and our large School Choir is open to all pupils in Upper Two to Upper Three. There is also a smaller Chamber Choir for which pupils in Upper Two to Upper Three who enjoy a challenge may audition. We also have choirs in Lower Two, called Little Voices, and a combined Lower One and Upper One Choir.
Each year, our choirs have performed a number of times in the Cathedral at school and charity events, and have been previously awarded an Outstanding adjudication at the Norfolk County Music Festival. The Chamber Choir have previously been invited to sing at a Gala Night in the Theatre Royal as part of the Norwich School Arts Festival.
75% of our pupils learn instruments, many of them taught within the school by our numerous peripatetic teachers. There are many opportunities for soloists to perform at our regular Informal Concerts. We also arrange concerts on a larger scale, at which all of our music groups perform
Find out more about our recent music achievements below:
The magnificent surroundings of St Andrew’s Hall provided the perfect setting for an unforgettable evening of music, celebration and youthful talent. Fresh from its recent renovation, the historic Norwich venue looked splendid as pupils, staff, families and friends gathered to enjoy a concert that showcased the extraordinary breadth of musical achievement across the Lower School. From the moment the Steel Pan Ensemble opened proceedings with Number 24 , directed by Mrs Wilson, there was a sense of excitement and anticipation in the air. Throughout the evening, performers of all ages demonstrated not only impressive musical skill but also the confidence, enthusiasm and sheer enjoyment that make live music such a special experience. The Guitar Ensemble, under the direction of Mrs Cracknell, brought energy and flair to the stage with the wonderfully quirky Steve’s Lava Chicken and the infectious rhythms of Blue Boogie. Meanwhile, the Reception Choir charmed the audience with a delightful selection of French songs, their smiles and enthusiasm proving utterly irresistible. The concert highlighted the remarkable progression of musical learning across the school. The Advanced Recorders gave a confident and accomplished performance of the sea shanty Wellerman, while the Infant Choirs delighted with their imaginative and colourful repertoire, including The Nectar Team and Bees Knees , conducted by Mrs Barclay. The String Ensemble, directed by Jim O’Toole, delivered spirited performances of Hard as Rock and Parsnip Polka , demonstrating both precision and character. Equally engaging were Little Voices Ensemble, whose entertaining rendition of School Dinners drew smiles from the audience before the vibrant El Cumbanchero brought a burst of Latin-American flair to the evening. One of the most anticipated moments of the concert was undoubtedly the debut performance of The Black Eagles , the school's very first Lower School rock band. Taking to the stage with confidence and undeniable stage presence, they delivered powerful performances of two songs written by themselves, Black Ou t and System Shutdow n. Their energy was infectious, their enthusiasm unmistakable, and they received a deservedly enthusiastic response from the audience. It was a landmark moment for the school's music programme and a thrilling glimpse of what promises to be an exciting future for the group. The Chamber Choir provided a beautiful contrast, bringing warmth and musical sophistication to The Water is Wide before delighting listeners with the witty How to Survive Music Theory. The larger School Choir continued the uplifting atmosphere with a beautiful rendition of I’ll Be There for You and a 90’s classic performance of Dario G’s Sunchyme , taking most of the audience back to memories of Ibiza. The evening concluded with the ever-popular Stickers Group, whose performance of Two Little Dickie Birds brought the concert to a fittingly joyful close. Across every ensemble, there were smiles on faces, encouragement between performers and a genuine love of music that radiated from the stage. The concert was a wonderful showcase of the dedication of the pupils and the expertise of the music staff, whose commitment continues to nurture cofidence, creativity and excellence. In the beautiful surroundings of the newly restored St Andrew’s Hall, it was an evening that uplifted, inspired and reminded everyone present of the power of music to bring people together.
The Lower School Chamber Choir recently enjoyed a wonderful musical collaboration, welcoming their friends from Boucher School from London for a special afternoon choir workshop. The session was filled with energy, enthusiasm and creativity, as the children worked together to learn a selection of new songs, including Only You , Scarborough Fair , and Count on Me by Bruno Mars. Guided by three talented choir leaders, the pupils embraced the opportunity to develop their vocal skills, build confidence and experience the joy of singing as part of a larger ensemble. One of the highlights of the day was the chance to work with different choir leaders, each bringing their own unique style and expertise. The children responded brilliantly, showing focus, teamwork and a genuine love of music throughout the workshop. The day culminated in a special concert held in the Senior School Chapel, where the combined choirs performed to an enthusiastic and supportive audience. The performance was a true celebration of the hard work and dedication shown by all involved, and the Chapel was filled with uplifting harmonies and smiles. Head of Music, Mr Vine, praised the event, saying: “A wonderful afternoon and evening with some fantastic music making. Well done to Boucher School and the Lower School Chamber Choir for all their hard work, and a big thank you to our fantastic choir leaders.” It was a memorable experience for everyone involved, and a shining example of the power of music to bring people together.
On 21 May, the Lower School was filled with music, enthusiasm and confidence as pupils from Lower 1 and Upper 1 took to the stage for their Informal Concert. The evening provided a wonderful opportunity for our young performers to showcase the progress they have made this year, performing in front of family, friends and staff in a warm and supportive atmosphere. From piano solos and violin ensembles to guitar performances and vocal numbers, the programme reflected both the variety of musical talent within the Lower School and the growing confidence of our pupils. Many performers were appearing in concert for the very first time, making the evening an especially memorable occasion. The audience enjoyed a wide-ranging programme including Clair De Lune, The Rio Samba, Naughty, Golden, Cyber Space Detective, Berry Smoothie, War Drums, Sun City, Drifting By, and An Important Person. Traditional favourites such as Old Macdonald, Twinkle Twinkle and Frère Jacques also delighted the audience, alongside colourful character pieces including Kristabel Kangaroo Visits Korea, Bluebird, The Trombone Player, Finger Strum, At the Show, Chiming Bells and Allegro Moderato. The evening was a celebration not only of musical achievement, but also of the courage and commitment shown by every pupil who performed. Congratulations to all involved on an enjoyable and successful concert.
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