shhs magazine - South Hampstead High School

SHHS Interiors:Layout 1 12/06/2011 22:03 Page 13tricky piece, Light and Glass. In addition, Choralelightened the mood singing two more upbeat, modernnumbers completely from memory.The Autumn Concert also provides anopportunity for individual girls to take to the stagein solo performances or smaller ensembles. It was areal treat to witness Mathilde’s outstanding performanceof Sarasate’s Zigeunerweisen, demonstratingher astounding technicalability, professionalism andmusicianship which were dulyrewarded with a standingovation. Later on, Mathildeperformed with Tanya (piano)and Hannah (cello) in anotherenjoyable and polished performance,Piazzola’s pianotrio Verano Porteño.This is only a snapshotof the Autumn Concert; theFlute Ensemble, Sinfonia andConcert Band also performed,as well as Big Bandand Salsera who as alwaysbrought a memorable end toan evening of musical delightsby playing favourites such as,September and, Ponte Duro respectively. The sheernumber of girls participating and the array ofgroups on show are testament to the multitude ofmusical opportunities on offer at South Hampstead.All that remains is to thank all of the teachersinvolved who have given so much time, effortand enthusiasm, for what can only be described as afantastically successful Autumn Concert!Sophie R, Year 13Issy singing in the Autumn Concert 2010The Leah Kiverstein Singing AwardsIn April 2010, it was time again for the LeahKiverstein Singing Awards – a much anticipatedsinging competition at South Hampstead HighSchool. We were privileged to have Lynda Russell asour adjudicator. Lynda studied with Meriel St. Clairat the Royal College of Music and has to her namean impressively varied list of opera roles andrecordings.As the evening’s performancescommenced, it became evidentthat with such a high standardof singing displayed, Lynda’sjob as adjudicator was going tobe a challenging one! However,decisions had to be made andthe prize for the Lower Schoolwas given to Hannah B who sangWeill’s My Ship beautifully withgreat charm and poise. The prizefor the Upper School wasawarded to Sophie R, whoseperformance of But Who MayAbide from Handel’s Messiahdemonstrated impeccable controland technique.The Leah Kiverstein Bursaryis an award given to a singer who demonstratesgreat potential; the prize money is given as a contributiontowards singing lessons. Lynda decided tosplit the bursary between two girls: Sophia M whosang Lullaby from The Consul by Menotti and LucyH who sang Widmung by Schumann. The decisionto split the bursary further conveys how brilliantthe singing was at the 2010 Leah Kiverstein SingingAwards.Thanks to all the girls who took part and2009-2011 School Magazine 13