Music Department Autumn Term Review

Several Informal concerts have taken place this term supported by excellent performances in morning assemblies. These regular events provide invaluable performing opportunities for our tremendous team of musicians and we look forward to seeing even more girls involved next term.

Solo performances outside school, include Francesca, who recently performed as solo pianist in a public piano recital together with students from Florence University. Anisha reached the second round for entry into the National Youth Orchestra and Rose gained a place in the National Children's Orchestra of Great Britain. Several Badminton girls also regularly perform as members of the Bristol Schools' Orchestra.

In school, two new music ensembles have been established: senior wind ensemble and years 7 - 9 string group. Three senior girls recently presented a music assembly to the Junior School performing on percussion and harp. We have had superb results from musicians who took ABRSM exams at the end of last term and we await results for a most promising entry of over 35 candidates who took the exam two weeks ago. Two pupils have taken a step higher, having recently taken the Trinity College Diploma Exam and we wish them every success.

The St George's concert this year certainly achieved new heights, with mesmerising performances from Choir, Orchestra and soloists. Mr Bale, Mr Ransom and Mrs Potter were delighted and very proud of the sheer professionalism generated by all involved. The nine intensive weeks of preparation were justly rewarded and this was clearly reflected in the audience response on the night.

Mr Bob Latham, the eminent composer and conductor attended our St George's concert and sent Mr Bale a letter following the performance: "the ensemble work was outstanding both in choir and orchestra. A particular mention for the superb team of soloists, the focus and delivery from Year 7 Choir and such well-disciplined playing from orchestra".

A member of the BBC National Orchestra of Wales was also in the audience: "I'm most impressed by the quality of performance; you would expect this high level from a specialist music school".