Performance, Play, and Praise
Giving the children opportunities to perform in music concerts is essential in developing them as musicians, not just children who can play an instrument. Performance transforms their playing from a technical exercise into a living and emotional experience that is shared with others. It is that connection between the performer and the audience that gives it such power, that makes it so inspiring for all. When the children see how they move the audience, both physically and emotionally, when they see the teary eyes and beaming smiles, something magical happens. They realise the impact they can have through their music, an invisible thread stretches from them to the audience and this is beautiful.
Across the evening, in which over 120 children performed from as young as Year 3 (age 7) up to and including all of Year 6, we were treated to performances from 6 different orchestras, ensembles, bands and choirs as well as 4 solos and yes, all of Year 6 concluding the evening with 4 brilliant top-tapping pieces. Mrs Romhany, our Director of Music, gives the full debrief in her write up in the notices section. Please do take a deep dive into the wonders we were treated to that evening.
A shout out in particular to our soloists; Mark N (Yr 6) playing Invention No. 8 in F by J.S. Bach on the piano, Jude E (Year 6) playing Ballad 1 by Michael Rose on the double bass, Ini O (Year 6) playing Thumb a Lift by Colin Cowles on the bassoon and Emma Z (Yr 6) playing Nocturne in E flat by Chopin. Each one made it look easy, they breathed through their nerves, they had great poise and delivered their pieces with technical excellence and heartfelt emotion. Fantastic achievement by all.
At the Prep, we understand the importance of play in the children’s social and physical development as well as their ability to manage risk and gain confidence in their bodies. This week, we opened a new playground – The Courtyard Playground – designed to be the perfect size for our Key Stage 1 children, but also presenting play opportunities for other ages too. The children delighted in climbing the wobbly step bridge, practicing their balance on the beams and braving the ninja wall. We are so grateful for the 75 acres of space we have across Brentwood School and the opportunities this provides for the children. You can find us in the woods in forest school suits, running the athletics track, playing tennis on our courts and generally having the time of our lives being physically active.
Also this week, Ayden K and Diyaani K, in Year 3, have earned a Head of Prep Award for being superstar artists. While studying the famous artist Hundertwasser, Ayden and Diyaani did a fantastic job of using bright, bold colours and interesting shapes to make their work pop.
They both listened carefully to all the tips on how to mix and layer paint, which helped them create a final piece that is full of rich textures and amazing patterns. Their artwork is bright, cheerful, and shows just how much effort and imagination they put into their project. Their dedication to developing their skills clearly impressed their Art Teacher Mrs Falco, who nominated them for the award.
Well done Ayden and Diyanni!
Have a lovely weekend,
Alice Goodfellow
