Musicians tune up the festive spirit

The big band performed at the Brighouse Victorian Street Market, playing some well known Christmas favourites to help get shoppers in the mood while the junior and senior choir were privileged to share the stage with Halifax Choral Society and Black Dyke Band at the Victoria Theatre in Halifax.

This was an excellent opportunity for students to see and hear musicianship of the highest quality and inspire them to continue their involvement with music.

Choirs and guitar groups gave their annual fundraising concert to a large audience at St Johns Church, Rastrick, raising more than £1,000 for Overgate Hospice.

The school’s annual concert “Christmas at Rastrick” celebrated the festive season and the hard work of students and staff. It featured all school musical ensembles in an entertaining and varied programme.

Assistant Director of Music, Jonathan Marriott, said it was a lovely event supported by an audience of over 280 staff, parents, governors, trustees and other guests, and the audience left with a sense that Christmas celebrations had really started.

“We would like to say well done and thank you to all the students who have taken part in the events.

“It is a very busy time of year but also an extremely enjoyable one and for some very worthy causes. Our thanks also go to the instrumental tutors for helping to prepare the students and, of course, the parents and audiences who support our events.”

Musicians were also strongly represented at the Year seven Christingle service at St Matthew’s Church. Junior choir and guitar ensemble performed in the service with special solo contributions from Year 11 students Caius Lee and Matthew Wilson.

The final music event saw RHS Senior Young Musician of the Year finalist, guitarist Bobby O’Hare, perform as part of the school’s presentation evening.