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:
On a beautifully warm and sunny day, the Lower School pupils brought music and joy to the residents of Abbeyfields with a delightful outdoor performance on the lawn. With umbrellas providing welcome shade, the setting was filled with a wonderful sense of community as pupils and residents gathered together. The programme opened with Lower 2 Little Voices, who gave an energetic and vibrant rendition of El Cumbanchero from Havana, immediately lifting spirits. This was followed by the ever-entertaining School Dinners, whose fun and characterful performance showcased an impressive four-part harmony, much to the resident's delight. Then, a special highlight came from U3 pupil Betsy Chuan, who gave a poised and expressive solo piano performance of Ballade pour Adeline, capturing the attention of all present. Finally, the Lower School Chamber Choir continued the programme with a more reflective set, performing O Moon and The Water is Wide, demonstrating some beautiful harmony and blended singing. They concluded their performance with the ever popular Scottish Riddle. The afternoon was filled with smiles, warm applause, and meaningful conversations afterwards, as pupils took time to chat with residents about music, tennis and the World Cup! It was a truly uplifting occasion, celebrating music, connection and community in the most joyful way.
A warm Lower School Hall was alive with music, laughter, and a touch of theatrical flair as children from Lower 2 and Upper 2 took to the stage for a truly delightful concert last night. The evening opened with a confident piano performance of Rocking the Boat , quickly followed by the wonderfully imaginative The Dinosaurs Bedtime March , which had the audience picturing a parade of sleepy prehistoric creatures. The ever-popular Sun City by P. Wedgwood made several cheerful appearances throughout the programme, each performance bringing its own sparkle. There was elegance and poise in The Ballet Dancer , while a charming cello rendition of Gavotte by Gossec added a touch of classical sophistication. The audience was then treated to, I Love Coffee , which was delivered with great character and more than a hint of humour. Film fans in the room were delighted by a violin performance of Hedwig’s Theme by John Williams, transporting everyone straight into a world of magic. This was followed by more lively piano pieces, including the flowing The River Flows in You and the crisp Allegretto by Bartok. The energy lifted even further with Way Out West and The Machine , before a bold trumpet performance of the James Bond Theme by M. Norman had toes tapping and imaginations racing with spy adventures. The concert continued with the spirited Tarantella Twist on the piano and a relaxed guitar piece, Fingers and Thumbs by G. Whitworth. A light and playful flute performance of A Tisket A Tasket added a traditional touch, followed by more confident piano playing including Lightly Row and Le petit mendiant . One of the highlights of the evening was a lively vocal duet of The Lady is a Vamp by the Spice Girls, which brought plenty of smiles and a real sense of fun to the hall. Throughout the concert, the children showed not only their growing musical skills but also great courage and enthusiasm. It was a joy to see such a variety of instruments and styles on display, and the supportive audience created a wonderfully warm atmosphere. Well done to all performers for an entertaining and memorable afternoon of music and well done to all pupils in the Lower School who have showcased their musical instruments throughout the year.
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.
Music Gallery
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