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Weekly Highlights 11th December

Welcome to the latest edition of Purcell’s Weekly Highlights!

Winter Jazz Concert

Purcell’s autumn term always ends with the Winter Jazz Concert, and 2020 was no exception! Last night (Thursday 10th December), we live streamed a sensational evening of swinging jazz standards and Christmas classics, made complete by the stunning vocals of our special guest, Jacqui Hicks. Huge thanks to Head of Jazz Simon Allen for masterminding such a fun and festive event, and to all of the students in the Jazz Ensemble and Improv group who lent their considerable talents.

If you missed the concert, or would like to watch it again, please click on the link below or visit the School’s YouTube channel here.

Festival Successes

Year 9 pianist Adrian has had a very busy term! He has taken part and triumphed in three virtual music festivals. Adrian took First Place in the ‘Sonata Movement under 19yrs’ and the ‘Bach under 17yrs’ categories at the Woking Festival. He was also awarded First Place in the ‘Baroque (Open)’ category, and secured Second Place in the ‘Classical Sonata Movement (Open)’ at the Maidstone Festival. Lastly, he prevailed in the Sutton Festival taking First Place in ‘Classical Period 15yrs and under’. Well done, Adrian!

Sound Espressivo Global Competition

Year 13 oboist Chelsea and Year 10 oboist Rhea have reached the Finals of their respective categories in this year’s Sound Espressivo Global Competition. Chelsea has been nominated for the ‘Innovative’ category, and Rhea for the ‘Virtuoso’ category. The Finals are taking place today (Friday 11th) and will conclude on the 12th December. We have everything crossed for Chelsea and Rhea, and wish them both the very best of luck in this original and timely competition.

Artwork of the Week

This week’s pick of Purcell art is the intricate study of a cat by Shiwen in Year 11, drawn with black fine liner.

Father Christmas

With thanks to Purcell’s own Christmas Elf, Shirley Clark, boarders and staff were treated to a festive visit from Father Christmas on Wednesday evening. The Round Table and Ladies Circle Santa Float, which drives through the streets of Bushey and Oxhey each year to raise money to produce food hampers for the local area, visited Purcell and brought with it a healthy dose of festive joy.

Avison Christmas Meal

On Thursday night, Avison House celebrated Christmas together with a festive feast, followed by seasonal games, award presentations and present giving. Thank you to the Houseparents, Residential Graduates and catering team for making this such a fun and memorable occasion for all.

Autumn Concerts in Review

We have been incredibly fortunate throughout this term that, despite the necessary restrictions, live music has remained an intrinsic part of school life. During the autumn term, students and staff have performed a staggering 70 concerts, and of the 160 students in Year 9 and above, 130 have performed in at least one concert, and nearly all performed in a concert or performance class – an achievement that we are all incredibly proud of and very grateful for.

If you would like the opportunity to watch some of the autumn term’s concerts, many have been recorded and released through the School’s YouTube channel here.