On Monday, 24th November, London’s magnificent Southwark Cathedral became host to every keen musician Bromley High School’s has to offer. This year’s theme was ‘Conflict’, so each piece reflected the poignancy of war and the significance of peace. This was a particularly relevant choice that could not have arrived at a more appropriate time; one hundred years after the start of World War One, the world still witnesses numerous threats to thousands of innocent men, women and children. Every day, as we are ruthlessly bombarded with reports and images of violence from across the globe, it is essential that we remember how fortunate we are to lead such safe lives full of opportunities for the future. The concert used music to communicate this to each person listening.
After a few words of introduction, the concert was under way. The audience was instantly captivated with Senior Orchestra’s performance of ‘Hymn to the Fallen’, from the moving film ‘Saving Private Ryan’. This was followed by a carefully chosen programme assembled by the school’s music department. The evening’s soundtrack featured a variety of popular hits: the upbeat theme tune from ‘The Great Escape’, an enthused rendition of ‘Edelweiss’ from the much-loved musical ‘The Sound of Music’ and the poignant theme music from ‘Schindler’s List’ were just a few of the classics beautifully delivered by girls of all ages and musical abilities. Other less well-known but equally wonderful pieces included ‘Colours of the Wind’ from Disney’s ‘Pocahontas’, the jazzy tune of ‘In the Mood’ and the uplifting gospel song ‘Steal Away’.
The evening ended with every single performer singing their hearts out to one of the Beatles’ most successful songs, ‘Let It Be’. Complete with charming harmonies and stunning solo performances, this was an ideal way to bring the concert to a close. Instruments disassembled, music tucked away and melodies ringing in everybody’s head, everyone gradually filed out of the cathedral. Before heading home, I caught up with Imogen Goddard, Year 11, who took part in a number of performances. ‘It was great to perform in such an amazing venue and really linked with the theme of remembrance, which is so topical at the moment,’ she told me. ‘I have some brilliant memories from the evening and even managed to make a few new friends with musicians from other year groups!’
The enthused concert was certainly a fantastic way to inspire everyone for the week ahead.
Raveena Rao, Bromley High School
