HUNDREDS of students took to the stage at one of the country’s premier music venues for a whole-school extravaganza to remember.
Barnard Castle School staged a spectacular concert involving more than 700 children, aged from four to 18, at the Glasshouse International Centre for Music, in Gateshead, making memories for teachers, pupils and their families alike.
Two years ago the school took over what was then known as the Sage in a major celebration that was the first since the pandemic.
The concert was such a huge success that it was decided to hold another musical gala for children of all abilities.
Barnard Castle School’s director of music Richard Dawson said: “It is hard to put into words how excited we were to stage another concert at such an incredible venue and it certainly didn’t disappoint, equalling the magic of the first.
“Pupils worked so hard in preparation for the evening and I am indebted to them for their appreciation of what we strive to do with music at Barney. The way they involve themselves is inspirational.”
A packed audience of more than 1,000 people were treated to a varied programme of music, ranging from small ensembles to multi-year group offerings, culminating in a whole school song, covering popular and classical music.
One performance featured the premiere recital of music composed by student Kathryne Steel, a trio for cornet, trombone and cornet, which was met with rapturous applause.
Headmaster Tony Jackson said: “It proved to be a very emotional evening that left me feeling so very humbled and proud of the way the whole school and Barney community comes together on occasions like this.
“Under the leadership of Mr Dawson and our director of drama Scott Edwards, we pride ourselves on driving high standards in the creative arts, while ensuring a sense of inclusion, so everyone feels they can participate.
“The concert melds individual and group performances by those who have a genuine passion for music and acting with those who want to take up the opportunity to be part of something spectacular. The result was indeed a wonderful treat.”
