On Tuesday 18th June, the Kirby Concert captivated an audience of over 100 attendees in Kirby House, highlighting the musical talents of our Year 7 (1st Form) and Year 8 (2nd Form) pupils. The evening featured a diverse range of solo and ensemble performances, demonstrating the pupils’ impressive skills and dedication.
Directed by Mrs Georgie Owen, the Kirby Choir opened the event with a lively arrangement of “The Wellerman,” a sea shanty that has recently gained widespread popularity on TikTok, and a traditional African chant. The Rock Band followed with an energetic cover of Elton John’s classic “Your Song,” featuring vocalists Chloe Okolo and Miller Payne. The band, which includes several Kirby House members, was enhanced by the bass and keyboard contributions of father-daughter duo James and Martha Goodwin-Hudson.
The concert showcased numerous standout solo performances. Miller Payne delivered a remarkable rendition of “Autumn Leaves,” accompanied by Mrs Owen on saxophone. Oceana Wan’s performance of “There’s Nothing Holding Me Back” and Heloise Chouillou-Veron’s atmospheric French song “Monopolis” were both well-received. Additionally, Oceana and Heloise performed a heartfelt duet of “Someone You Loved.”
Oscar Sharp impressed with his well-controlled violin performance of Holst’s “Ländler,” accompanied by Dr Jon Williams, our Director of Music. Pianist Rufus Tassell brought a serene mood with Einaudi’s captivating “Elegy for the Arctic.” The concert also featured performances by future Kirby House members, Year 6 pupils Pippa Sharp and Daniel Sowunmi, who will join Year 7 in September.
The evening concluded with a powerful performance of “Rolling in the Deep” by Miya McGhee and Miller Payne, leaving the audience eagerly anticipating the next Kirby Concert in the second half of the Michaelmas Term. This upcoming event promises to provide a platform for even more young performers to showcase their musical talents.
Dr Jon Williams, Director of Music, praised the pupils’ hard work and enthusiasm, noting that the concert was a wonderful celebration of the junior year groups’ musical abilities.
