A tribute to Schindler’s List, a touching adaptation of Dear Evan Hansen’s ‘You Will Be Found’, Chapel Choir’s interpretation of ‘Cantique de Jean Racine’ and a upbeat duet of ‘September’ accompanied by the Big Band and strings were just a few of the great performances given at the end of April by pupils of Ipswich School at Snape Maltings, in the musical event of the year.

With the excitement of the audience tangible in the concert hall, the first half brought a selection of orchestras from the Prep and Senior School. Following an opening fanfare, the Symphony Orchestra combined with the Concert Orchestra to open the concert with a punchy rendition of Walton’s ‘Crown Imperial’. The incredible sounds of the orchestras together not only demonstrated the commitment to music at Ipswich School, but the level at which the musicians practice and perform.

After the Chapel Choir’s performance, the Symphony Orchestra closed the first half of the event with the theme from ‘Schindler’s List’, which included a solo from Year 13 violinist Georgia B. The opening half of the concert was a great
success, setting the bar high for after the interval. The Wolsey Consort opened the second half of the concert, and then they were joined on stage by Lower School Chamber Choir, accompanied by national finalists in the Procorda Chamber Music competition – the Middle School Quartet.

After performances from the Chamber Orchestra and Show Choir, the Big Band took to the stage for a set which included Amber F-C and Lizzy M collaborating for a fantastic duet where they sung ‘September’ by Earth, Wind & Fire.
Then it was time for the final performance of the night – ‘You Will Be Found’ from the musical Dear Evan Hansen. Sung by a wonderful group of Sixth Form students, accompanied by the Big Band and strings, they accurately portrayed the layered emotions of the song.

Overall, the concert demonstrated the immense success and prowess of the Britten Faculty of Music, and all staff and students involved should be extremely proud of their hard work and perseverance that resulted in such a fantastic concert.

Isabel M and Dylan J-M, Year 12