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The Stopfordian 2011–2012
LEAVERS’ CONCERT
As ever, the Leavers’ Concert was a highlight in the music
calendar of the school; an emotional experience for a number
of pupils, parents and staff – especially the Upper Sixth Form.
This concert was the last opportunity for a particularly musical
year of leavers to (collectively) showcase their musical talent
amongst the many groups the school has to offer. I believe it
was thoroughly enjoyed by all.
The music began with Junior Big Band, conducted by Mr
White. They played the bluesy Route 66 and then transported
the audience to the Caribbean with St Thomas. They then
finished with the very popular Mack the Knife.
Chamber Choir, conducted by Mr Dow, followed with It was
a lover and his lass and Who is Silvia? from Songs and Sonnets
followed by the athletic (and very wordy) Renaissance piece Il
est bel et bon. Mr White then returned with Big Band. They
played Jamiroquai’s Virtual Insanity and the technically
demanding High Maintenance; never before has the band
looked and felt quite so tired at the end of their slot.
Wind Orchestra, conducted by Mrs Taylor, concluded the first
half with The Dambusters March and West Side Story’s
America. The band was joined by vocalist Maddie Hardy for
an arrangement of Feelin’ Good, resulting in lots of applause,
cheering, whistling and a standing ovation from some. The
interval began, officially, and the audience’s exit was meant to
be accompanied by Wind Orchestra playing The Stripper.
However, everyone stayed to watch and everyone was in
stitches when Eddie Greaves and Suzy Eames left their
instruments to provide, erm………., a visual performance to
go with the music. Nothing too risqué, although clothes were
certainly thrown into the audience and I discovered that I
could still read music while crying with laughter.
The second half began with Concert band, conducted by Mrs
Taylor, playing The Ritual Fire Dance and Stevie Wonder in
Concert. Everyone loves some Stevie Wonder, even if it
doesn’t feature the man himself. Next up were Chorus,
school’s largest musical ensemble, who sang California
Dreamin’ and Wicked’s Dancing Through Life.
Most importantly the Leavers’ Ensemble ended the
proceedings. This year’s leavers decided to sing the theme
from Friends, I’ll be there for you, in an arrangement
coordinated by our very own Ollie Mills. Ollie also conducted
the ensemble. The vocalists were backed by Yayha El Asmar
on piano and younger pupils playing the guitar, bass and drum
parts. The audience enjoyed this greatly and someone
shouted for another rendition afterwards. Of course, they got
their wish. At this point people were getting a bit emotional
and even Ms Barrett had to fight back a tear in her closing
announcement.
On a personal note I’d like to thank this year’s leavers for
being such role models to younger pupils and such good
friends to me. You will be missed, truly, and the thought of
having to step into your shoes next year is a daunting one. I
hope your involvement within the musical life of the school
has been unforgettable.
Harry Vernon (L9)
MUSIC TOUR
Splitting into boys and girls choirs, we each rehearsed a
mixture of popular songs, as well as some funny rounds, all in
4 part harmony of course! After this relaxed rehearsal, filled
with many laughs and giggles, we took to the grass for some
recreational football and a game of rounders. You would not
be wrong in thinking that the games were serious however, as
they brought out the competitive side in staff and pupils alike.
When it was finally too dark to see the ball, we all begrudgingly
drifted back into the warm, to get some rest and prepare
ourselves for what was sure to be an intensely fun day ahead.
The Music Tour, as is always the case, was a major highlight of
every participating pupil’s Summer Term. This year saw us
back to the Outdoor Activity Centre Glaramara in the Lake
District, a beautiful venue in an idyllic setting. With some of
us having been there two years ago, we couldn’t wait to return.
We departed on Friday 29th June with 50 pupils and staff and
we can safely say that everyone enjoyed the coach ride there,
singing along in true music tour fashion. We arrived just in
time for dinner and everyone was pleased to be able to tuck
into a home cooked, hearty meal, before the evening
activities commenced.
Music, Drama and Art 70