The Winterfold Music Festival took place on Thursday 5th March and was a wonderful celebration of musical talent across the Prep School. The annual competition, open to pupils from Years 3 to 8, provides young musicians with the opportunity to showcase their skills and perform in front of an audience of family, friends and teachers.
In the weeks leading up to the festival, all musicians were invited to audition in front of Mr Price and Mrs Richardson. After hearing a wide range of impressive performances, a selection of finalists were chosen to perform in the festival itself. These talented pupils represented a wide variety of instruments and musical styles, creating an exciting and varied programme.
The festival was divided into Junior, Intermediate and Senior rounds, allowing pupils to perform alongside others in their age group. Finalists included Alex V, Elliot L and Eddy H on drums; Rafferty S, Stanley M, Emily C and Toby S on trumpet; Jack CW on baritone horn; Harrison G on trombone; and William H and Ethan E on bass. Woodwind performers included Henry T, Alfie MR, Myles E and Isaac W on saxophone, as well as Charlotte L on flute.
The string category featured Freya M, Charlotte M, Kitty C, Heidi H and Ethan E on violin, alongside Meva C, Dominic G and Felix S on cello. Pianists Alice H, Ellie S, Meredith M and Cameron M delivered confident and musical performances, while the vocal category featured Issa D, Liberty L, Imogen J, Florence N, Jonny H, Darcy H, Tommy L, Daisie H and James JE.
The competition was judged by Mr Loughton, Mr Cotterill and Mr Mitchell, who had the difficult task of selecting winners from such a strong field. In the Junior category, the winners were Charlotte M (violin) and Elliot L (drums). Intermediate winners were Ethan E (violin), Charlotte L (flute), Myles E (saxophone) and Jonny H (voice). In the Senior category, the winners were James JE (voice) and Felix S (cello).
Adding to the fun of the occasion, the festival coincided with World Book Day, meaning many finalists performed in costume, which amused and delighted the audience. It was a fantastic afternoon of music and a wonderful celebration of the musical talent within the school community, supported enthusiastically by families and friends.
