Performances

David has always been keen to encourage his pupils to perform. Over the past four years, he has organised six pupil concerts:

They offer an opportunity for students to perform in front of an audience (usually between 70 and 100) at a local venue. After the 2007 concert, a 16 year old pupil wrote:

‘This year’s concert was called Myriad of Colours, and in my opinion was a great success (although I am a highly biased judge as it was my first!). Everyone had great fun, and the audience seemed to enjoy it just as much as those who were performing! At the first rehearsal, the programme sounded good enough, but by the time the performance arrived, the already brilliant set of songs had been perfected. It was easy to see which songs everyone liked best, as the volume rose to an even greater height (not that that means much from where I’m sat, as I’m not the most confident person, and as such, the volume of my singing is sorely lacking!). Overall, everyone managed to successfully make their way through the programme. The audience were great, and the general atmosphere was energizing (I don’t think I’ve ever been that ‘hyper’ before!). I would just like to say thank you for persuading me to take part.’

There is, of course, no pressure to take part in our concerts or other activities. Currently, between 40 and 60% of students take part. They give an opportunity to meet other students, and as one adult pupil said:

‘It has been so enjoyable meeting the other students, all of which are much younger than me; but when we come together to perform, before you can say ‘glissando’ the generation gap falls away…’

Where possible, performances have utilised talents beyond music: pupils have helped with costumes, choreography and organisation in the past; performances have also, where possible, included elements of dance and drama too.