Christmas with the Big Band Provides a Festive Evening of Music and Talent

Performing in ‘Christmas with the Big Band’ was an incredible experience for all involved from rehearsals all the way to the performance. Lower Sixth Music Scholar Martha Colclough, who plays Tenor Sax in the ‘Big Band’ and also Flute in the ‘Flute Ensemble’ shares the following report:

“The Concert commenced with the ‘Big Band’ performing Joe Primrose’s ‘St James Infirmary’ setting an upbeat, lively tone for the night. As always, I was astounded by the talent of the soloists, this time even more so with James Walter in Year Seven, our youngest band member, setting the standards high with his incredible solo on trumpet. Next were my two favourite pieces from the ‘Big Band’ set, ‘A Night in Tunisia’ and ‘Vamanos’, which created a groovy Latin American feel and generated energy between the audience and performers.

As the ‘Big Band’ left the stage, room was made for the incredible A cappella group, ‘UVVE’ (Upper Voices Vocal Ensemble). With teamwork, they transformed the energy the ‘Big Band’ set into a tranquil, reflective performance of ‘Mary, Did You Know’. After never hearing them perform together, I thoroughly enjoyed listening to their voices blend so magically. Shortly after ‘UVVE’, ‘Junior Jazz’ set the Christmas spirit for the night with ‘Reggae Bells’, covered in tinsel and Father Christmas beards, and everyone was smiling. Watching the younger musicians flourish not only with their improvised solos but also genuinely enjoying music together was something I and the audience loved.

The Flute Group pieces were an absolute delight to rehearse and perform. Continuing the Christmas spirit, the flutes performed a smooth “Have yourself a merry little Christmas” and then a bossa nova version of Jingle Bells when the audience saw our fun in Flute Group led by the brilliant Mrs Porter.  The first half closed with a performance I was looking forward to: ‘Noodle Soup’ band made another return, performing a sensational cover of ‘Merry Christmas Everyone’ featuring some of the most incredible singers and musicians.

A highlight of the whole night for me was the warm mince pies! Throughout the day I had looked forward to spending time with friends and family just before the second half began with an inspiring performance by Senior Jazz. My personal favourite piece was Joe Lampley’s ‘For Roy’, with one of Theo Masson’s incredible tenor sax solos, blowing the audience away with his talent.

Guitar Group were next and created an ominous mood within Perrins Hall with a spectacular moment as they performed Monty Norman’s ‘James Bond Theme’, immersing the audience in their hard work and team spirit. Following the A capella theme set by ‘UVVE’, DMC (Dashing Musical Chaps) took the floor with ‘Lonely This Christmas’, putting smiles on everyone’s faces. Their love and enjoyment of singing, especially with others, made me so incredibly happy, especially sitting with all the other musicians listening all together.

The end of the Concert was near, and the ‘Big Band’ returned, this time embracing Christmas with a spread of tinsel-covered instruments, festive jumpers and a selection of iconic holiday classics. A personal favourite was “This Christmas Song,” which was a beautiful vocal solo performed by Bethany Atherton and an incredible solo by Toby Alexander; I loved listening to them perform with such energy.

Not only that, but I also loved the solos by Emily and Sophie Jackson, who showcased their talent to the entire audience as the end of the concert neared. Jose Feliciano’s ‘Feliz Navidad’ closed the concert, and looking around whilst playing, it was such a joy to see everyone smiling. Signposting the start of Christmas, I loved the preparation for the Concert, everyone working together to put on another incredible performance to remember”.

Thank you to Martha and well done to all of the pupils who performed in a memorable concert which really set off the Christmas festivities. Thank you to Mr Adlington and the Music Department for all their hard work in organising the concert and preparing the groups.