Following on from the Orchestral and Strings Concert, the penultimate week of term saw the Berrick Hall come alive once again with colour, energy and a palpable sense of musical progression at the Cross-Phase Bands Concert. Bringing together 150 students from Year 3 to Year 13, the evening offered a snapshot of the instrumental CCA programme, showcasing not only the breadth of Wind, Brass and Percussion ensembles available, but the clear pathways through which young musicians develop their skills and confidence. Rob Hall, Director of Music, tells us more.

From the very first notes of Augmented Realities by the Senior Percussion Group, directed by Mr De Souza, the audience was immersed in a world where rhythm and texture intertwined. This sense of imagination continued with the Symphonic Wind Band, whose spirited performance of the Pokémon Theme reflected both their musical maturity and the adventurous spirit of the evening’s video game-inspired theme.

The newly-formed Beginner Band, under Mr Samuel Phua, charmed the audience with a set of familiar tunes, including Ode to Joy and Frère Jacques, delivering a performance full of enthusiasm and promise that belied their short time together. Similarly, the Senior Brass Group also made their first appearance, bringing a sense of drama and grandeur to the Game of Thrones theme, marking an exciting new addition to the school’s ensemble offering.

Elsewhere, the Concert Band’s expressive rendition of Kingdom Hearts and the Junior Band’s characterful take on Lion’s Pride demonstrated the depth of talent across the middle years, while the Flute Ensemble’s playful Mii Channel Theme and the Junior Recorder Ensemble’s Round and Round added moments of lightness and charm. The Junior Percussion Group, another debut ensemble, impressed with Shockwave!, confidently exploring a range of ensemble techniques in their first performance.

The evening culminated in a high-energy set from the Big Band, led by Mr Hyland, whose performances of Computer and Five Nights at Freddy’s, featuring Ryna P, showcased advanced musicianship alongside stylish flair, complete with standout solos on trumpet, sax and drum kit.

A collaborative grand finale brought together the combined forces of Junior Band, Concert Band and Symphonic Wind Band to play two pieces, World of Warcraft and Super Mario Bros., encapsulating the concert’s spirit of unity and progression. More than just a performance, the evening was a celebration of musical journeys - highlighting not only where students are, but where their journeys can take them!

Bravo to all performers!