LATEST NEWS

RCM Jazz Orchestra Trip

On Thursday 19th January, Year 10 musicians took a break from their last minute cramming for their mocks and had a night on the town, where we were transported to the world of Los Angeles and the music of Bob Florence, the legendary Big Band leader. Directed by Chiswick-based trombonist Winston Rollins, the Royal College of Music Jazz Orchestra were spectacular and featured ‘face- melting’ solos from every instrument in the band. Even the most critical-eared of our Year 10 cohort were speechless by the end. Winston, if you’re reading this, please join us for Jazz and Blues Night!

Orchestral Concert

On Tuesday 30th March, we had our first ever concert featuring just instrumentalists, and it certainly won’t be the last. We featured three of our instrumental ensembles: The Chamber Orchestra, who played Peter Warlock’s famous Capriol Suite, the Brass Band then played a programme of Welsh, Brazilian and American folk songs, before the Orchestra finished with three pieces, ending with Jean Sibelius’ Finlandia, a celebration of Finland’s rich history and national identity. Special congratulations must also go to our soloists: Yushua (drums), Mylu (double bass) Youssef (guitar), James H (violin) and Jamie H (triangle).

Josephine Gains a Place at Trinity Conservatoire

We are very pleased to share that Josephine S (Year 13) has gained a very prestigious place at Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance on their vocal programme for next year. Arts colleges for music and performing arts are notoriously difficult to get into, and in music, the most difficult discipline to be accepted on is always the voice. Josephine has been with us since the beginning of lower sixth and has shown unwavering dedication to her vocal progression. She can now look forward to reaping the rewards of a five year vocal programme where she will grow in her operatic and solo repertoire. Congratulations!

New Songs Open Mic Night

On Wednesday 24th January, we kicked off our City Barge series with a first: a whole Chiswick concert where every song has been written by a student. We had 13 songs from six songwriters from Year 8 to 12, and we were all treated to a wonderful evening. There were slow ballads, unusual chord sequences, father and son duos, a kazoo solo, and even a baritone ukulele. Seriously, watch out for these guys in the future.

Emma Sings at ActOne Cinema Open Mic Night

One performer at our new songs open mic night was Emma P (Year 12) who decided that one open mic night in a week wasn’t enough. The following day, she showcased her songs at ActOne Cinema’s monthly open mic night for the community; she was very well received and got some great networking experience. If anyone else would like to get involved in these open mic nights, you can find out more here.