Kate and Chris performed on the evening of the hottest June day for about 50 years, with pupils in Years 4 to 8 who gave a wide range of excellent performances to their parents, friends and teachers. The audience was treated to performances from LAMDA, ballet and dance students, along with joyous ensemble music played by the Brass Monkeys, Choir, Superstrings and Wind Band.

Brass Monkeys, conducted by Kate with Chris playing tuba, played three pieces; Regal Fanfare, Aerie (Minecraft) – arranged especially for the group by Kate and including added percussion – and Football Crazy!

All the pupils performed with smiles on their faces, despite the exceptional temperature in the auditorium, demonstrating how much they were enjoying presenting the results of their hard work to everyone in attendance.

This year’s Senior School Summer Concert was a spectacular celebration of musical talent, marking both an end-of-year tradition and a heartfelt farewell to the Upper Sixth musicians.

The evening began in grand style with the Senior Orchestra, which included two pupils from Year 8, performing Franz von Suppé’s Light Cavalry Overture, setting the tone for a night full of variety and emotion. Concerto highlights followed, with outstanding performances by trumpeter Bobby L (U6W) and French horn player Toby S (U6P), accompanied by Chamber Orchestra made up of pupils and music staff. The Senior Wind Band kept the momentum going with an exciting set, culminating in a powerful medley of Hans Zimmer’s iconic Movie Milestones themes.

King’s Brass, conducted by Kate, opened the second half of the concert with a balanced programme of Purcell and jazz. To close, the Senior Wind Band delivered a rousing trio of favourites.

A special tribute was paid to Mr Graeme Vinall, retiring after an incredible 43 years as Head of Woodwind and ensemble leader. His contributions were honoured with a surprise performance of his own arrangement of the National Anthem — a touching farewell for a much-loved figure in the King’s music community. A huge thank you goes to all the pupils who performed, and to the parents and families who have supported their musical journeys throughout the year.

Kate and Chris were pleased to perform with their students at King’s School on Wednesday last week at the Senior School Christmas Concert. Though it was an early start for the Christmas celebrations, it certainly got everyone in the festive spirit! The opening music of the concert was from King’s Brass. The solemn but beautiful sounds of Henry Purcell’s Anthem from the Music for Queen Mary II was followed by two Christmas pieces (Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas – arranged for the group by Kate – and Walking In A Winter Wonderland) which brought the spirit of Christmas to the fore.

The Prep School Christmas concert takes place next week with more festive hits to round off the term!

Kate and Chris performed in the King’s Orchestra Day on the 30th of September alongside over 70 young musicians from seven schools for a day of music-making with a spooky twist. Pupils aged 9-13 from Ashford, Sevenoaks Prep, Lorenden Prep, Merton Court, Dartford Primary Academy, Gateway Primary School, and Wrotham Road Primary joined forces to learn and perform two iconic pieces: In the Hall of the Mountain King from Peer Gynt by Edvard Grieg and the ever-popular Ghostbusters theme by Ray Parker Jnr.

The theme for this year’s Orchestra Day was delightfully spooky, perfectly matching the Ghostbusters number and adding a touch of Halloween fun to the day. For many of the pupils, this was their first experience playing in a full-sized orchestra. Under the expert guidance of our King’s music staff, the pupils spent the morning rehearsing their parts before coming together in the afternoon for a full orchestral rehearsal.

The day culminated in an Open Rehearsal, where proud parents and staff were invited to hear the impressive progress the pupils had made in just a few hours. The young musicians showcased not only their hard work but also the joy of collaboration and the power of music to unite.

We are delighted to let you know that Medway Music Association’s Saturday Music Centre is welcoming new members! 

The Music Centre which is held at Rainham Mark Grammar School during term times starts again on Saturday 28^th September and we would really appreciate it if you would share this opportunity with your pupils.  

The sessions run at the Music Centre are for complete beginners (no experience required) to the more advanced musicians, aged between 5 (Year 1) and 18 (Year 13).  

All the information can be found at www.medwaymusicassociation.co.uk/saturdaymusiccentre

We have also attached the Music Centre Timetable and Session Descriptions below.

For any enquiries, please email info@medwaymusicassociation.co.uk