TWO EVENINGS OF MUSICAL BRILLIANCE

JOINT SCHOOLS' CONCERT AND CHAMBER MUSIC CONCERT

The Joint Schools' Concert

The Joint Schools' Choral Society returned to the Abbey on 12 March for a special tribute in memory of Mick Stout, our beloved Director of Music who sadly passed away last year. Mr Stout had a profound impact on the choral community, running many Joint Schools' concerts over the past 15 years.

The program began with Brahms’ Song of Destiny, setting a sombre yet uplifting tone. It continued with Vaughan Williams’ Serenade to Music, a Shakespearean-inspired piece performed by current and former pupils, symbolising unity and a shared love for music. The first half ended with Parry's I Was Glad, a majestic anthem that exuded grandeur and reverence.

After the interval, the concert concluded with Beethoven’s Ode to Joy, a powerful tribute to Mr Stout's legacy, emphasising brotherhood and unity. Conducted by Tom Young, Director of Music, the evening flowed seamlessly, honouring Stout’s influence on the musical community.

Presented by St Albans High School for Girls and St Albans School, the concert brought together pupils, teachers and friends to celebrate Mick Stout’s lasting impact through music and community.

The Chamber Music Concert

On 27 February we held our annual Chamber Music Concert. with a diverse range of performances from our leading musicians.

The concert began with Schubert's Octet, 5th Movement Menuetto, beautifully performed by an ensemble of eight pupils. Next was Beethoven’s Piano Trio Op. 1 No. 1, First Movement, featuring Priyaa on violin, Angelina on cello, and Liv on piano. The programme continued with Suk’s Bagatelle for Two Violins and Piano, performed by Julie, Thomas, and Jasper. The Clarinet Trio Op. 11, 1st Movement Allegro con brio by Beethoven, was brought to life by Greg on clarinet, Nathan on cello, and Tom on piano.

Mozart’s Quintet for Piano and Wind, 3rd Movement Allegretto, brought a wonderful contrast to the programme, with Tristan (oboe), Jamie (clarinet), Henry (horn), Lully (bassoon), and Tom (piano) delivering a playful and lively rendition.

The final performance of the evening was Fauré’s Piano Quartet No. 1 in C minor, 1st Movement Allegro molto moderato, with Nikolaj on violin, Travis on viola, Alex on cello, and Felix on piano. The ensemble's performance was brilliant and we are thrilled to recently learn that this group are through to the finals in the Pro Corda music competition!

The concert was an inspiring celebration of chamber music and we are incredibly proud of all our performers.