It is brilliant to have our music gradually returning to life, with live performances and our musicians working together. We have every year group in our school, and so for the first time amazing music taking place in both phases.

Recently we had our first Rock Gig for two years. It was a wonderful occasion and one of such emotion for the performers and families. Watching the confidence and musicality was a joy.

Elsewhere, all our ensembles are eagerly rehearsing for forthcoming concerts, details of which can be found below. This includes the Year 2 String Training Programme musicians who have been working hard on their first ever instrument (we thank our partners the Hertfordshire Music Service who have helped fund the programme), as well as some Year 13 musicians preparing for their final recitals with the visiting examiner. 36 students took a music exam in January with an 86% merit or distinction rate - each result was a personal triumph!

With our concerts, our traditions return. The Big Band Evening, the Wind and Brass Evening, the Vocal concert and more. These traditions are important to families and the musicians - older musicians who were once younger are waiting for these concerts to return so they can have 'their' moment performing pieces they have waited their turn to do. In the Larch we are creating new traditions now that we can perform once again. Year 3 woodwind musicians were brilliant in their recent performance evening, showing families what they have achieved in just over a term. Alongside traditions, we are working to develop new ideas, new partnerships across the school, bringing together our musicians in new ways.

Our Summer concert returns to Saffron Hall this year. Please save the date and alert everyone you know!

Our message now to all musicians at Simon Balle is to get involved! There are so many opportunities for musicians and with commitment and hard work, amazing things will happen. As we believe

When you're part of it, you put your heart in it

Mark Taylor, Director of Music

New Musicians

Since September, we have had 24 Year 7s and 8s begin to learn a woodwind or brass instrument, and shortly we will invite them to join an ensemble.

We are proud of how they have embraced this new challenge and worked so hard. Starting in a band is a big step, so we will ensure that they are supported to make the transition smooth and fun!

Singing

Our singers and choirs are preparing for their Vocal Showcase coming up. You can find out all the information by clicking the image below:

We look forward to hearing what they have been working so hard on!

Congratulations

To Aimee in Year 13 who has gained a place at BIMM from September where she can take her love of popular music to a whole new level in her degree. Aimee is a great musician and committed to our Chamber Choir and the Big Band. Well done Aimee.

Alby in Year 10 recently took part in The Voice Kids on ITV. Do click on this page to see what happened.

Alby shines on the Voice Kids

An Evening with the Simon Balle Big Band

Is this Saturday. They are supported by Big Band 2 and it should be an amazing evening. The Big Band are then performing at a Headteacher's conference and then the Hertford Mayor's annual dinner next week, so a busy time for this group who have worked so hard to rebuild this well known group. Live music is returning!

Our Larch Stars

Our Larch Stars are musicians who have been nominated by their instrumental teachers for something really good that week. Their certificate is presented in assembly. Well done to

• Isla J in Year 2 for working extremely hard and demonstrating excellent bow hold each week
• David B in Year 5 for continuing to make steady progress each week and always trying his best
• Freddie U in Year 2 for making excellent progress in his cello playing, and his concentration and focus has greatly improved
• Isabella H in Year 5 for always showing enthusiasm and working hard, even with a sprained wrist
• Chloe A in Year 2 for excellent playing with the bow
• Annabel H in Year 5 for excellent work over half-term towards her Grade 1
• Amber C in Year 5 for keeping excellent time and moving between right & left hand
• Thomas M in Year 3 for becoming more confident in his cello playing
• Ziva H in Year 6 for fabulous work, good reading and having a positive, mature attitude
• Harry D in Year 3 for brilliant work in his clarinet lesson
• Renae L in Year 4 for great work at home and during lessons
• Euan E in Year 5 for excellent work over half-term towards his Grade 1
• Beau B in Year 5 for good note reading, and helping others within her saxophone group
• Angus M in Year 3 for brilliant work in his clarinet lesson
• Olly S in Year 3 for great finger position on his clarinet
• Khush B in Year 3 for really good work on his flute sound production
• Zach H in Year 5 for excellent work over half-term towards his Grade 1
• Lola M in Year 6 for always trying hard in the lesson and persevering when finding something technically challenging

Performances

Each Friday, we have students perform a piece in the Larch Celebration Assemblies. Performing is such a great experience, and we look forward to seeing more of our students be able to do this in front of their peers.

Ziva H in Year 6 played 'Air' on the violin, and was accompanied by Mrs Kirk.

Consider Yourself

In Mrs Iles' lessons, year 4 have been singing: 'Consider Yourself' from Oliver. You can listen to their hard work below:

Brass Ensemble Rehearsals

We are excited to say that our Larch Brass Ensemble are having a series of rehearsals in preparation for the upcoming concert: 'A Celebration of Brass'. All information can be found by clicking the image below.

We are looking forward to hearing what they have been working on, and giving the opportunity to perform with other students throughout the school.