MUSICAL majors and minors raised the roof with seasonal cheer at an annual Christmas extravaganza.
Dozens of talented pupils from primary schools in Northallerton joined together with musicians from The Allertonshire School and Northallerton College to put on a rousing yuletide concert.
The 60 strong youth orchestra, aged from six to 18, led by Allertonshire music teacher Mary David, performed a medley of classical, modern and traditional Christmas music to a delighted audience of family and friends.
“Having young musicians come to The Allertonshire from our local primary schools is a wonderful way to get them used to performing in front of a large audience,” said Mrs David.
“Mixing with older role models also allows them to see the range of musical options available to them once they progress to secondary school.
“The Christmas concert is a fabulous time for everyone to come together and enjoy a real music treat.”
Opening to a lively Jazz beat the Allertonshire School Blues Orchestra (ASBO) swung into action with Swing Town and Lunch at the Spot before strings, woodwind instruments, brass, percussion and drums gave rousing performances from calypso to carols.
A mixed singing group delighted the audience with a medley of songs including Don’t Stop the Beat, Sleigh Bells and Let it Go from the hit Disney film Frozen.
North Yorkshire County Council peripatetic music teacher Vanessa Jameson, who liaised with The Allertonshire School to help arrange concert, said: “It’s been a superb event and a brilliant opportunity for local primary school children to come and play their instruments in a larger group with older musicians.
“It’s fabulous that music is so alive at The Allertonshire School and nurturing grassroots musicians will ensure that the Christmas Concert will be an ongoing tradition for years to come.”
The young musicians were also supported by head of music at Northallerton College Adrian Bramley and North Yorkshire County Council peripatetic music teacher Tim Waters.
Violinist Abby Sykes, 13, of Northallerton, said: “The Christmas concert is one of our favourite performances of the year.
“It’s lovely to see all of the young musicians come in and for us all to be able to play together.”
Broomfield School pupil Ruby Ingham, eight, added: “I’ve been playing the violin since I was six and I really enjoy it.
“I like playing in an orchestra and I especially like all of the Christmas carols.”
