The Power of Music – what an exceptional evening. The year 5 pupils (aged 9-10 years) from High Wycombe Church of England Combined School, joined 58 other primary schools from Buckinghamshire to sing and perform on Monday evening (28th March) at London’s premier venue – The Royal Albert Hall.

The school children took part in ‘Echoes 4’, a performance that combines music with other art forms and focused on two themes - 'Strike', a new cantata composed by Jane Smith, and 'Celebrations', a choral sequence compiled by Helen Mitchell incorporating the natural world, the richness of cultural diversity and childhood. A massed drumming fanfare opened the show, with Key Stage 2 wind and brass players introducing the second part of the evening. The performance concluded with an exciting finale celebrating the vigour of Key Stage 2 music in Buckinghamshire.

This was such an opportunity for our children to join in a grand celebration of music and arts. The collaboration of so many school children all joining together to produce a fantastic musical evening was a real credit not only to the children but also their teachers who have supported them throughout rehearsals.

At a time when cut backs and reduced funding could mean the reduction of music lessons, training and events, this concert went to prove just how inspired these children can be through the medium of music. Dressed in a rainbow of colours and period costume their enthusiasm and enjoyment filled the Albert Hall – itself on the eve of the anniversary celebrating 140 years since it was opened by Queen Victoria.

To all those involved in the production, conducting, accompanying, composing the musical score, the teachers for orchestrating the rehearsals and to all those behind the scenes that made it happen – our heartfelt thanks.

Steve Crawshaw – Parent Governor at High Wycombe C of E Combined School said ‘Performing in the Royal Albert Hall is the pinnacle of most professional singer’s careers, so for over eighteen hundred children to be able to experience the grandeur of such a location and the atmosphere of performing together was breathtaking - an evening they won’t be forgetting in a hurry! On behalf of all the parents, our thanks to all those involved including our Headteacher – Mrs Hawkins, Year Five teacher – Miss Jones and our music director Mrs Venvell for all their hard work and support.’ Based on information supplied by Steve Crawshaw.