At Simon Balle, we are so proud of what our musicians achieve, day after day. We have had so many amazing performances and moments of celebration in recent weeks across all of our music. Increasingly across the country in many schools, music is in decline. At Simon Balle, I am continually reminded what music means to our students, families and community, both in school and in the wider area. Everyone in Team Music is part of this. The recent performances and events have been nothing short of incredible. We have much more to come.

With Christmas around the corner, so are the Carol Services. Details are below, and please put these in your diaries. They are amazing occasions and this year should be even better! I look forward to seeing many of you there, at All Saints' Church.

Finally, we are on Instagram, curating pictures and videos to celebrate our amazing musicians. Please follow us, like and share. Why should we keep everything achieved to ourselves?!!

https://www.instagram.com/simonballemusic 

Enjoy the music. Team Music!

Mark Taylor, Director of Music.

It has been fantastic to introduce performances in the Larch KS1 Singing Assembly and KS2 Celebration Assembly. Both Secondary and Larch students have been involved, playing as classes enter the hall. This is an excellent platform for the students allowing them the opportunity to showcase some of the super learning, and hard work that has been going on in their instrumental lessons.

KS1 have also been lucky enough to have a performance from the Year 2-3 choir. They heard 2 songs performed by the choir. 

As part of the Celebration Assembly, some of our Larch musicians receive a Larch Star certificate. They are nominated by their instrumental teaching or by Mrs Johnson for an excellent performance in assembly. Our Larch Stars for November are:

Felix WB, Angus M, Felix G, Harry D, Stanley H, Alba W, Emelia M, Alexa T, Jack C, Alec C, Aluna S, Lewis E, Chloe A, Isla J, Marnie W, Mimi T-B, Mason Y, Loris U, Valentina M, Dominic K, Orson B, Isabella C and Evie B! Well done to all

In November, we celebrated Piano Day! Mr Lovell worked tirelessly to ensure all of his students celebrated Piano Day in one way or another, whether this was a performance in the Library at Lunchtime, a performance as part of his Recital Evening, or a video filmed in lessons. 57 pianists took part during the day. Incredible.

It was a brilliant occasion, and we look forward to it again next year!

For now, please enjoy the videos filmed for Piano Day, along with a wonderful variety of performances from the recital evening!

On Thursday, I played the piano at the Celebration of Larch Music. I was slightly nervous as I've never played in front of a crowd on my own before, but I knew I could do it as I practised the piece enough times. My highlight was how proud I felt when I finished playing. It was a great experience and I don't think I'll be as nervous next time!

Valentina, Year 5

On Wednesday, we celebrated our Singing & Secondary Strings.

There was a variety of performances from James Bond Theme by Senior Strings, Billie Eilish by Chamber Choir and a Hairspray number by Secondary Choir!

Performing can be a daunting experience, and all the students performing here did exceptionally well! They should be really proud!

You can watch the videos from the evening here -

As a member of the cello section in the orchestra, the highlight for me was performing the iconic James Bond theme. Each musician contributed to the symphony of sound, creating an incredible atmosphere. The collective effort of everyone involved made the performance truly remarkable, leaving a lasting impression on both performers and the audience alike.

Chloe, Year 8

I was very nervous on the day. I had a solo in the secondary choir. I sang the first verse in the song ‘Somewhere Only We Know’ and I loved the song. I feel it went well and my family told me I did a great job. My favourite part was when I was handed the microphone and I knew I was ready to sing. I was terrified but when it came I was fine and I really enjoyed it and recommend an experience like this.

Hazel, Year 7

On Monday, we celebrated Wind & Brass. With performances from Junior Wind Band, Brass Ensemble, Concert Band, Saxidentals and the all new JSAX!

It was a fantastic evening of music, you can watch the videos here. Well done to everyone.

On Tuesday evening, we enjoyed performances from 14 bands! What a variety of songs! All performed to such a high standard! We are so proud of the performers and amazing audience.

Enjoy the videos here!

On Friday, the Simon Balle Big Band performed at the Hertford Christmas Gala!

It is always a brilliant performance, and this year was no different! Thank you to everyone in our community who came to watch and support.

Please click on the below image for more details.

Please click the image for more details

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