Last Saturday, the Double Reed, Clarinet and Wind Ensembles performed at a lunchtime concert at St Mary’s Church, Shinfield. It was a wonderful morning of musical performances that varied from show pieces to classical and a little bit of 80s along the way which we hoped warmed up a chilly morning in Shinfield. 

It began with a cheerful performance of ‘The Sun Has Got His Hat On’ by the Double Reed Ensemble followed by a toe-tapping version of ‘Copacabana’ from the Oboe Trio which started the recital with gusto. Next up was a surprise performance by Jennifer who played one of her A-Level Music pieces called Sarabande and Allegro by Grovlez, accompanied by Mrs Ayton on the piano. It was definitely an inspiring performance for all those aspiring musicians out there! The Clarinet Ensemble gave us a wonderful rendition of ‘Danse Macabre’ ,a challenging piece which they nailed and definitely deserved the rousing applause that came afterwards (Kudos goes to Kate for her brilliant Eb Clarinet playing of a particularly difficult part). To end the concert the Wind Ensemble performed a spritely and upbeat version of ‘Show me the way to Amarillo’ and an uplifting ‘I Dreamed a Dream’ gratefully accompanied by local pianist Sarah Scotchmer. 

Overall, it was an amazing way to start the weekend and we would like to thank Mrs Ayton, Mrs Clark and all the church staff for making it possible. We look forward to returning next year!

Emily