Abingdonian 2020

9 www.abingdon.org.uk Michaelmas Term House Singing, nerves flooded through me. This was to be in front of the whole school, all the teachers and the external judge. What could possibly go wrong? We were sent away to learn the words and music. When we got back to school there was a significant hurdle to clear: the first rehearsal. This was the first time that anyone would hear my solo. I felt excited but at the same time apprehensive, as I did not know how people would react. However, I realised that there was no point in being worried about it, so I went and tried my best. The reaction was very positive. We were all very relieved, but it was still only the first step to the actual competition. Over the next week of rehearsals we all worked our hardest and really wanted to achieve the victory. Finally the day was here. In the morning we were all talking nervously about what was coming up later. We knew our chances were good, but none of us wanted to tempt fate. If we won, it would be the first such triumph in the history of Lower School. At last it was time to go on stage. I took a deep breath and walked out. Then the all-too-familiar introduction started to play. When I started to sing, I forgot all about my nerves and just concentrated on doing well. Once the song had finished, we felt that the performance had been a success, possibly our best performance ever. But it was still a surprise to be crowned the 2019 House Singing champions! We were elated, having all worked so hard for this record breaking moment. Rupert Mathieson, 2HFCP