We Are The Champions

“On Thursday 10th February, pupils from St Hugh's attended the Uppingham Prep School’s Orchestral Day. Held annually, this is a hugely important and significant event that provides a valuable opportunity to reaffirm and celebrate the musical relationships that we share. This year's theme ‘We Are The Champions’ offered a broad choice of inspirational and upbeat pieces for three separate ensembles. 

Firstly, the string orchestra performed Peter Warlock's 'Basse Dance', along with a piece from High School Musical, 'We're All In This Together'. The wind band, featuring woodwind, brass and percussion pupils played a Queen medley including 'We Will Rock You', 'We Are the Champions' and 'Another One Bites The Dust', as well as performing 'Ain't No Mountain High Enough'. These two ensembles combined to form a full orchestra, directed by Uppingham's Director of Music, Andrew Kennedy. They performed 'Chariots of Fire' by Vangelis before rounding off the concert with a spectacular rendition of 'Eye of The Tiger'.

Some 223 pupils attended the day, representing 14 different schools. In total, schools travelled 660 miles to participate in the event, demonstrating how valued this day is for instrumental pupils. It was also nice to see a former St Hugh's musician, Joseph Shaw, performing as part of the Uppingham Jazz Orchestra on drum kit, testament to the early opportunities afforded pupils here at St Hugh's. 

Overall, the day was a highly enjoyable one, and one which I hope will live long in the memories of the pupils who attended. Opportunities such as these have a huge impact on our musicians and help nurture and develop their musical capabilities and passions. They provide a focus for practice and essential performance experiences, vital elements for a developing musician. Working as part of such a huge ensemble, with other children from elsewhere, brings people together in a way which only music can. I am incredibly proud of our children that attended and commend them all for their work ethic and dedication leading up to this day. Well done, all!”

Mr Ferguson, Director of Music - St Hugh's

Our pupils who attended were: Daniel S, Beth C, Brandon B, Dan G, Scarlett G, Peyton B, Florence L, Angelina B, Lucia H, Jenson G, Aydin T, Grace L.