These much-anticipated events see the boys perform solos on the instruments they learn alongside their singing commitments, and are always a joyous occasion. We heard a wide range of music, as each boy introduced himself and the piece he was playing with commendable confidence. Indeed, in the case of William and Xavier, who played a piano duet, The Old Banjo, together, this verged on standard-up comedy, as they each sought to make their position clear! William, who had already given us a chilling rendition of the Dr Who theme tune on the cornet, was pleased to tell us he was still William. Taking us to the honky-tonk world of the American south, this was a fine part of our musical tour. From the Moravian folk melodies of Smetana's Aus Der Heimat (a personal favourite of mine), played by Harry on the violin, we visited the Russian Steppe in Riku's lovely guitar playing, and the Polish ballroom in Will's Mazurka. A highlight from a Year 8 boy, this captured the flexibility and rubato characteristic of Chopin's national dances perfectly. From those at the beginning of their musical journey to these more advanced performances, all the boys performed wonderfully, and we were truly proud of all of their efforts. Many thanks to Mr du Plessis and Mr McCann for such sensitive accompaniments - and patient tuning up.

Very well done, boys! 

Anna Elliot
Q Parent