Recently, our talented students from the orchestra, concert band, string group, chamber ensemble, and brass ensemble took to the stage for a truly memorable performance at the Salvation Army Citadel. This concert marked the culmination of their hard work and dedication throughout the year, and what a spectacular event it was!
The evening showcased the students’ deep passion for music, especially the classical repertoire, and the audience was treated to a wide range of performances. The concert was a resounding success with a fantastic turnout, and it was clear that our students poured their hearts into every note they played.
A few standout moments included the chamber group’s stunning rendition of Mozart’s Symphony No. 40, the brass ensemble’s beautiful performance of Abide with Me featuring bugler Asher Jones, and the concert band’s dramatic Fanfare for the Common Man, which really brought the house down.
The orchestra was the main feature of the evening, and their performances were nothing short of extraordinary. They began with a thrilling movie set, featuring iconic pieces like 20th Century Fox Fanfare, The Final Countdown, and the ever-popular Avengers Theme. The orchestra then transitioned into a more classical set that included the elegant Trumpet Voluntary, the sweeping Moldau, and the dramatic Hall of the Mountain King, before finishing with a festive favorite, Carol of the Bells—a perfect way to wrap up the concert.
Leading up to this event, our students had the invaluable opportunity to work with two highly respected professionals in the music world. Tony Ryan, conductor of the Primary Schools Festival Orchestra, and Emma Eden, Principal Horn of the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra, both visited our rehearsals to provide expert guidance and feedback. Their time and expertise were instrumental in helping the students refine their performances, and we are incredibly grateful for their support.
One of the most impressive aspects of the evening was the growth of our orchestra. This year, the orchestra expanded from just 12 members in Term 1 to a robust group of 42 students by the concert. This growth reflects the dedication, enthusiasm, and talent of our students, and we are incredibly proud of all they have achieved.
A huge thank you to the Noakes family for generously donating the venue, which provided a wonderful space for our concert. Without their support, this event would not have been possible.
Congratulations to all the students for their hard work and perseverance! Your commitment to excellence has truly paid off, and we look forward to seeing how you will continue to grow and inspire others with your music. A big thank you to all the teachers, parents, and staff who have supported our musicians throughout the year. What a fantastic way to celebrate their musical journey!
By Pieta Hextall