This year has seen Kingsley students take part in a number of exciting music events, collaborating with students and staff from across the Foundation.
The year began with our annual Foundation Service at St Mary’s Church, Warwick, which brought together choirs from every Foundation school to perform as one impressive massed choir. The congregation included all Year 5 and Year 8 students, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to attend this uplifting community event at least twice during their time with us.
This was followed in November by an outstanding Foundation Gala Concert, held at The University of Warwick’s Butterworth Hall. As with the Foundation Service, music once again proved a powerful way of bringing people together – never more so than on this evening, when musicians of all ages shared their passion for performance. Kingsley and the other Foundation schools were represented magnificently, with students of all ages showcasing their musical talents. The exceptionally high standard of performance was a clear reminder that, when we collaborate as Foundation, the result is greater than the sum of its parts.
The spring term saw a variety of other musical opportunities. Members of the Foundation Symphony Orchestra performed alongside professional musicians and peers during ‘Elements’ at Warwick Hall. This truly unique opportunity was afforded as part of Warwick Schools Foundation’s ongoing partnership with Orchestra of the Swan. All of the students excelled, fitting in seamlessly on stage with the professional musicians – a testament to the quality of their playing that evening. As always, Orchestra of the Swan delivered an outstanding performance.
The Junior Foundation Symphony Orchestra gave their second performance this term. Following a full-day workshop, they performed on stage in the same concert as the Foundation Symphony Orchestra. It was a fantastic experience for both younger and older musicians to perform at the same event, providing Prep pupils with something to aspire to as they move into our Senior Schools over the coming years.
Year 7 students also had their annual opportunity to perform alongside Orchestra of the Swan. As part of the Year 7 Instrumental Scheme, every Foundation student learns a musical instrument, and this event allows forms from each school to come together to rehearse and perform alongside professional musicians, becoming part of the wider musical life at the Foundation.
The summer term also saw the launch of the Foundation’s new choral scholarships, open to students from Year 3 through to Year 13. Successful applicants will join the King Henry Consort, perform at Foundation services and events and play an active role in weekly services led by the choir of St Mary’s, Warwick. Other upcoming events this term include the Foundation’s Early Music Group performing in a liturgical reconstruction of the coronation of Elizabeth I.
At Kingsley, musicians of all ages and abilities have access to a wide variety of opportunities, and are able to take part in events both inside and outside of our schools. We are proud to contribute to everything that makes music at Kingsley and across the Foundation so exceptional.
Article by Mr Chambers, Director of Music
