The House Music Festival took place over two evenings, with
225 students involved and packed audiences in the TST. The
quality of music produced on the first night was high, with
finales arguably being the best we have heard in many years.
Following some helpful feedback from adjudicators Kate Hart
and Charlie Rhodes (OP), the second evening reached even
greater heights.
Of the instrumental pieces on offer, Wilberforce played
to their strengths, performing a note-perfect performance
of Pachelbel’s Canon. However, it was their exceptional
performance of Steve Reich’s minimalist piece, Clapping Music
which created most buzz and discussion. Dolman gave a strong
performance of the theme from Rocky , and Gruggen presented
Feeling Good , with Ben Burton featuring on trumpet. Hutton
gave a confident rendition of the George Michael classic,
Careless Whisper with a superb saxophone solo by Adam Smith.
The Choral items were strong, with all houses finding
appropriate, yet diverse repertoire to reflect their strengths.
Wilberforce presented the well-known Hallalujah in a three-
part arrangement, whilst Hutton excelled with a lovely
rendition of Man in the Mirror with some confident solo singing.
Gruggen produced a good two-part arrangement of California
best bands we have heard in years. The performances had
an excitement brought by superb choreography, colourful
costumes, and moments of laugh-out-loud humour! Hutton
began with Lay All Your Love on Me , confidently sung, colourfully
costumed, and tightly choreographed. Wilberforce’s Blame
it on the Boogie captured a 70’s feel with afro wigs and flares
(!), yet brilliantly sung, and supported by an excellent band.
Dolman presented Classic by MKTO, again confidently sung,
and well-choreographed. Finally Gruggen opted for Hot and
Cold , colourful and loud as the singers belted out the chorus
with real passion! The sheer enthusiasm of the whole house
captivated the audience who loved every moment of this song.
Prior to the presentations, the audience were treated to the Art
HOUSE MUSIC FESTIVAL
Dreamin’ , ‘though it was their all-male performance of Stand
by Me that brought the house down thanks to the incredible
solo by Joe Cheney. Dolman completed the choral items with
Like I’m Gonna Lose You with First Year Hattie Cobb singing
a confident solo to begin the arrangement. It now appears
to be de rigueur to have a conductor for the choral items, and
certainly this has led to a strong sense of ensemble, though
the adjudicators reminded houses that this should be used only
when it enhances performance.
Each house concluded with their finale, a choreographed
arrangement of a pop song, accompanied by some of the
Department’s interpretation of the East 17 classic, Stay Another
Day – laughter all around, but we must express our sincere
thanks to the staff who have put on these entertaining items for
many years. When it came to the presentations, the audience
were held in suspense. The judges congratulated all performers,
making special mention to the 6th for organisers from each
house. Then the award for the best individual item over the
two nights was given to WILBERFORCE for their unique
performance of Clapping Music . After careful deliberation,
the overall trophy was also awarded to WILBERFORCE,
received by screams of joy from the packed balconies.
MK
THE POCKLINGTONIAN
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