The Wadhurst Music Concert was a wonderful event, showcasing the talent of many students. From the Concert Band, which opened with the Zombie Tango, to the Wadhurst Orchestra which concluded with the first movement of Beethoven’s 5th Symphony, students performed with high levels of both competence and confidence.
“It is always hugely satisfying to nurture students’ progress over the year, put them on a stage in front of a large audience, and then see them rise to the challenge,” says Ms Melinda Sawers, Head of Music.
With around one in four boys participating in the concert, Mr Greg Caldwell, Head of Wadhurst, believes the event is an important part of their development. “We try to provide many opportunities for performance as possible. If boys are learning an instrument, I believe it is important that they are working towards something.”
Ms Sawers concurs and adds that concert participation also brings other benefits. “The skills involved in bringing together such a concert are not just musical in nature, but lessons in life itself for the boys,” she says. “Organisation, rehearsal, participation and commitment are skills that the boys develop in tandem with their music, giving them valuable experiences in true teamwork.”
Four Wadhurst musicians hold an AMusA Diploma, two with a LMusA Diploma as well – an amazing achievement at their age. These are Year 8 students, Daniel Bian (AMusA with Distinction, Violin), Russell Liao (AMusA and LMusA, Violin), and Jonathan Tong (AMusA, French Horn), and Year 7 student, Chris Tsang (AMusA, piano). Daniel is also Captain of Music this year.
“All of the students put a lot of hard work and dedication into the rehearsals,” says Daniel. “I’m really proud of what they have done.”
