Years 3-6 presented a magical Carol Service on Wednesday evening.  The service began with a moving duet from Remi and Sofia T for the opening of our first hymn, Once In Royal David’s City.  Chamber Choir first sang ‘Dormi Jesu’, a specially commissioned arrangement for our choir by composer Ian Higginson, and Christmas choral classic ‘Jesus Child’ by John Rutter. They wowed the congregation with their expressive and pitch-perfect performance.

All of the choirs came together for Natalie Sleeth’s ‘Jazz Gloria’, showing off their marvellous four-part singing skills. Ruby Z and Arianna opened the piece with excellent confidence and pizzazz.  Staff choir stunned the congregation with their unaccompanied rendition of ‘Away in a Manger’.  What a multi-talented staff body we have!  A huge congratulations to the staff for all of the hard work you have put into preparing this moving performance.

All of these musical delights were sandwiched by the theatrical depiction of the ‘Halley the Comet’ story.  This story tells the tale of the bright star that shone over Bethlehem on the night of Jesus’ birth.  Thank you to Year 6 who did a brilliant job of showcasing this story.  The ballerinas were truly mesmerizing!

For the next part of the service, the lights went down and candles were spread around the church.  The Year 3 and 4 choir performed a spine-tingling arrangement of ‘Love Came Down at Christmas’ by Ian Higginson.  A very special, heart-warming moment for all present.  To top it all off, all of the choirs came together for a showstopping performance of Handel’s ‘Hallelujah Chorus’ from the Messiah.  An absolute triumph!  With a real sense of joy and love in the building, Rev. van der Hart gave us the final blessing, sending us away with the spirit of Christmas in our hearts.

Thank you to all involved in the service.  Suzy Dixon and Rob Cawley for their readings, Lucinda for her story and address, all of the teaching staff for their support in preparation, Benji Page for technical support, Jennie Amin and Caroline Smith for logistical support and planning, and Diana Russell for the Order of Service.  A special thank you to my musical team for your support in putting this service together.

Miss Houlder, Head of Junior Music