The aim of the day was to give young performers the opportunity to get a taste for playing in a large orchestra and to feel the excitement of working with different pupils and teachers.

Boys and girls from Claires Court Juniors, Seniors and Sixth Form, Seer Green CofE, Danesfield School and Cookham Dean CE Primary School, came together for one day only, to rehearse and practise three pieces. Pupils took part in singing, sectional and full orchestra workshops, and then a mere seven hours after first joining forces, the young musicians revealed their new skills and talents by performing in a concert to parents and visitors.  The audience were treated to individual solo and group numbers from each of the schools, before the day culminated in a brilliant and rousing performance which included a James Bond medley. There was a wide variety of ability involved from those who started playing their instruments only a few months ago; playing rhythmic open string parts to a grade 8 trumpeter and saxophonist from the Sixth Form playing the solo parts.

Director of Music at Claires Court Girls, Miss Hester Goodsell said;

“Our pupils thoroughly enjoyed themselves being part of such a great event. Only a few had played in a big orchestra before, so this was a very new and exciting experience for all. It’s a fantastic way for pupils from other schools to interact and become immersed in a day full of music and inspiration.”

Niamh, Year 11 Claires Court Senior Girls said;

“What a fantastic day! Having so many different schools from across Berkshire come together, with pupils of all ages and musical abilities, was very exciting. It was such a brilliant experience for everyone and to achieve so much in only a day - singing and playing classical and popular pieces - with everyone participating. It was great to be part of it. Huge thanks to all the music teachers from across the schools who made it what it was."

Katie, Year 7 Claires Court Senior Girls said;

“Thank you very much to all the teachers for the wonderful day, I enjoyed all of it and I overcame my fear of singing solos in front of an audience! Playing James Bond was one of my favourite parts.”

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