Lockdown or not, the show must go on and on Friday, 22 May, S. Anselm’s School pupils found an innovative way of showcasing their talent by way of a virtual Summer Concert. Our talented pupils raised the roof, pushed the boundaries of technology and delivered a first-class performance.
Over 130 families watched the live streamed event which was achieved using Microsoft Teams as a platform. Rapturous applause could be heard throughout as the interactive audience were even able to clap between performances. Facilitated by the school’s IT Department, the concert was introduced by Head Teacher Frank Thompson and compared by Director of Music, Mark Percival.
The quality of music was outstanding demonstrating the huge range of both talent and instrumental diversity available at S. Anselm’s School. Ten Soloists including harp, cello, saxophone, drum kit, piano, flute and voice all ranging between grades 4 up to diploma standard were selected by the Music Department for demonstrating excellence on their instrument/voice during the year. These musicians, guided by the dedicated S. Anselm’s music staff and peripatetic team, provided either video or audio performances. These were then edited using iMovie and Logic Pro X by Mr Percival.
Pre-recorded Lent term rehearsals from Chapel Choir, Swing Band, College Jazz Band, Guitar Ensemble and Girls’ Close Harmony Group combined with photographic visuals of the wonderful musical achievements including a February 2020 Hereford Music Tour also played as the audience attentively listened.
The Finale was an innovative and rousing Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture project involving a collaboration of several musicians; each recording their own individual orchestral part using a specifically arranged click track arranged during the lockdown period. This culminated in an extremely uplifting and successful end of term concert appreciated by all.
Mr Thompson said,
“It was such a great moment to see so many of our S. Anselm’s pupils online together, there to enjoy the summer concert. The musicians did so well to record their performances at home and we heard and saw a huge variety of talent. A lot was done to make the technical side work and I am hugely grateful to Mr Percival for all his music production work and to the IT team for ensuring it broadcast so clearly on the day. The moment we all applauded the first performance together, though we were all in our own homes, brought such a strong sense of togetherness. It was a lovely reminder of what it is to be a part of the S. Anselm’s community.
Below are some comments from both parents and pupils:
“Firstly, I’d like to say thank you to you and all the staff for transitioning so brilliantly this last term. The concert this afternoon was an amazing achievement and it is so comforting to see that the show definitely does still go on. I appreciate the immense effort that has gone into teaching and performing in such a different way.” Mrs Mosely
“Well done you and your team; and the clever IT department for keeping us all in check!!” Mrs Pugh
“I just wanted to say thank you for organising and preparing everything for the concert, Mark. It was the perfect way to end this half term and I actually cried a couple of times!” S. Taylor
Thank you very much for the concert today Sir I enjoyed it a lot thanks! It was a brilliant idea and a great way to have our concert. It was lovely to hear everybody play too. Best wishes, Lizzie
