On Friday 20 January a lunchtime concert was held, for budding musicians to take to the stage and practise performing for an audience. The informality of the setting – in the Lecture Theatre, with peers and staff members, allows pupils to experience performing in front of a crowd, away from the pressure of a formal concert. Oliver Newton, Charlie Thomas, Danny Seymour and James Grundy took part. Friday lunchtime's are already much loved, with fish and chips being the meal of the day. However, Friday 20 January was particularly special as the lunchtime concert was absolutely brilliant.
The first lunchtime concert of the year was incredibly popular. The Lecture Theatre was absolutely packed with pupils and staff members eager to enjoy the music provided by talented Shiplake musicians. Danny Seymour was first onstage, opening proceedings with Yesterday by The Beatles. Danny, a seasoned performer, shone in the Winter Concert at the end of the Autumn term, and continues to perfect a wide range of classics. Charlie Thomas was next onstage, giving a charismatic performance as Quasimodo, Hunchback of Notre Dame. Charlie excels himself onstage, particularly in performances of musical theatre. He is taking on the role of King Louie in the upcoming performance of Jungle Book (tickets can be booked here). Oliver Newton made his concert debut, playing a jaunty tune on the piano. James Grundy closed the concert, playing the guitar and singing Ed Sheeran’s popular tune Castle on the Hill.
Director of Music Mr Richard Curran and Musician in Residence Byron Ward had worked with the musicians on the concert, which was incredibly well received. Mr Curran thanked the audience for attending, and commented: ‘the talent and enthusiasm shown by the pupils is simply marvellous. They work show hard and it’s great that they can share this with you. We welcome anyone who wants to play to try their hand at it!’