APS News 19

January 2019 Abingdon Prep Performing Arts The concert took place in the magical setting of St Helen’s Church, Abingdon, complete with a beautifully lit chandelier and decorative displays of craftwork by the boys. Rupert sang the solo in Once in Royal followed by the orchestra’s Vivace from Corelli’s Christmas Concerto and Walking in the Air . Junior Choir performed The Light Song in two parts and the Wind Band, led by Zach (Y8), played Strollathon . Y3/4 sang Te Harinui with Nikhil (Y7) on violin, then they had the audience clapping along to the Puerto Rican carol, Feliz Navidad , as did the Jazz Band’s Jingle Bells Meets Madness with Tom’s (Y8) exuberant sax solo. Daniel (Y8) played May I (Wish You a Merry Christmas) à la Charlie Mingus on double bass and Y5/6 gave polished renditions of Torches and Love Shone Down (soloist: Josca Y6). Carol Concert Y7/8’s performance of Debbie’s Carol from Flanders , the story of the Christmas truce, served as a fitting commemoration to mark the centenary of the end of WW1. Boys from all year groups delivered Christmas readings with confidence and expression. Folk Group danced while they played a jubilant I Saw Three Ships and the senior choir sang Saviour’s Day with clear diction and solid harmonies. Paul’s guitar group donned light-up Christmas hats for Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree , then we heard the crack of the whip and Ruairi’s (Y8) whinnying horse in Y7/8 Sleigh Ride , and Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy performed on two flutes with purity of tone by Dilan and Leo in Y8. Chamber Choir sang the Spanish carol Riu Riu Chiu with wonderful clarity and the whole school joined to sing Debbie’s composition, Shepherd Boy with gusto. Schools’ Prom In mid-November, the School's Senior Choir travelled to London to perform at the Music for Youth Schools' Prom at the Royal Albert Hall. They were part of the Oxfordshire Massed Buddy Ensemble, organised by Oxfordshire County Music Service; an orchestra and a choir of 500 pupils from primary, secondary and special schools across Oxfordshire. The performance received a standing ovation and the whole evening, featuring top level ensembles from around the country, was a truly memorable experience for the boys.