In spite of the restrictions imposed by Covid 19, music has continued to thrive at Dauntsey’s.

Two online solo recital concerts took place in September and October, featuring GCSE and A Level students.

A wide programme including Mozart, Chopin, Handel, as well as more recent musical theatre numbers, entertained viewers and provided valuable performance experience for the students.

Just before half-term pupils took part in the heats of the Lower School Music Competition. The range of instruments, variety of styles, and musicality demonstrated was impressive, and from 39 performances, eight pupils were invited to compete in the final. The programme included music from Sondheim, McCartney, Mancini, Rebikov, and Duke Ellington with vocal performances and a wide range of instruments including the acoustic guitar, trumpet, clarinet and piano.

The adjudicator for the final competition was Alison Mears, director of Guildhall Young Artists, who was highly impressed with the standard of all performances and delighted to see live music.

The school has congratulated Savin for his performance of Feuilles D’Autumne by Rebikov on the piano, which won the competition. After adjudication the finals were broadcast on Dauntsey’s YouTube channel.

Gareth Harris, director of music at Dauntsey’s, said:“Performance is such an important part of learning an instrument and I am pleased to say that we have managed to continue performing under Covid restrictions with some wonderful recitals on-line. The Lower School Music Competition was a particular highlight this term with some outstanding performances from a wide repertoire of musical styles and instruments.

“We can’t wait to be back to performing in more ‘normal’ circumstances, but, meanwhile, we will continue to come up with innovative ways to support the students with their musical endeavours.”