Language celebrations

Today was the European Day of Languages at CGS.  The Senior Choir were in good voice to share in this as we rehearsed the French chanson Tourdion [dating from 1530], J.S. Bach's Jesu bleibet meine freude [otherwise known as 'Jesu joy of man's desiring] and Alexander L'Estrange's Song for the soul [OK, it is in Swahili but is such a great sing we had to do it].

Earlier in the week it was fantastic to see this year's Flute Group in action.  Sounding good, and brilliantly led by VI form students.

If you've not yet joined one of our Music Ensembles - please consider doing so soon.  Currently over 1/4 of the school are regularly involved.  There's always plenty of room for more from all year groups.

What it's all about

This has been a busy week in the Music Department at CGS.

On Wednesday the Chamber Choir travelled to Winchester Cathedral to sing evensong.  Really confident singing of the Smith responses, Dyson in F and 'God be in my head' by Rutter - to the acclaim of the Winchester Dean.  We were also able to see Anthony Gormley's statue 'Sound II' in the crypt.  Of course there was also the tomb of Jane Austen to see, and history was brought to life as one of the Vergers revealed that the 'verge' he uses daily was also in use at the lavish 16th century wedding of Mary Tudor to King Philip of Spain.  In truth history lay before our eyes and under our feet.
On Thursday a small group of soloists presented a lunchtime concert in Axminster.  These regular concerts have involved CGS musicians for over twenty years, and it was a pleasure to hear polished performances of music for Flute, Harp, Violin and Voice.  An appreciative audience of over seventy people enjoyed the playing of the nine students.
Rehearsals have been building through the week too.  Do look out for groups to join in if you are not yet playing or singing.  Over 160 singers now in the Senior Choir - making a great sound in the Vivaldi 'Gloria' already.
The week ended with a fantastic Y9 GCSE lesson exploring Salsa - great fun, and musical playing from the whole group.  That's what it's all about - exploring and enjoying music together.

New musicians

Over 50 Y7 students signed up for lessons
A very productive meeting was held today, to introduce Y7 to the procedure for individual music lessons from our team of talented VMTs at CGS.
Letters have gone home and most teachers start next week on Monday 7th Sept.

Leadership potential
This was also in evidence today as Y11 offered to run A Cappella group, and Singer/ Songwriters club.  Looking forward to the year ahead.

A New Term, a new year . . .

WELCOME back to a new year of Music at CGS.

There will be plenty going on in 2015-16, so make sure you keep up to date.

Important start of term information

Individual Music Lessons start on Monday 7th September.  With the exception of Miss. Dean and Mrs. Chapman who will be in to teach the week after.  Remember to check your emails for lesson times and come along ready to achieve great things this year.

Rehearsals for ensembles begin on Monday 7th September too.  Chamber Choir will be kicking things off at 1.45pm, in preparation for a visit to Winchester Cathedral later in the month.

Don't forget we're on Twitter @Music_CGS and for Senior Choir members there's always the Facebook page to keep up with