Ipswich School Midsummer Soiree 2009
Yes, this article is a bit late, but better late than never! For once the weather was nice, a good crowd gathered on the school field and there was a very friendly atmosphere. There were varying genres of music throughout the evening, with the usual ensembles performing.
On first were the Intermediate Orchestra, playing a variety of Kaleidoscope arrangements of well known popular songs (and a shocking arrangement of Pomp and Circumstance marches 1 and 4 fused together!). Can you feel the love tonight? and Deeper shade of pale were the other numbers, and it got the Soiree off to a fine start. This was followed by the Symphony Orchestra, which I was conducting. We began with William Mathias’ Processional before a medley of ABBA songs. It all went fairly well, given the lack of rehearsal time due to exams. Following this was the new school Brass Ensemble, playing a selection of movements from La Danserie. Once again, this was an an excellent performance, especially given that the ensemble had only started rehearsing this year. The Chamber Orchestra performed next, with Mr Leach at the helm, before the Flute Ensemble played Bohemian Rhapsody. This wasn’t my favourite item – don’t get me wrong, I have nothing against the Flute Ensemble playing baroque/classical music originally written for flutes, but on this occasion Queen just didn’t work. School Choir sang the Teddy Bears’ Picnic and Oh I do like to be beside the seaside. The Rock Band sang a few songs, before the Big Band finished off the evening.
It was an excellent night to be part of, helped by the weather (for a change!). Let’s hope that next year is as pleasant, as our last.