A number of Rotarians from local clubs joined packed audiences for the Wolverhampton Schools Music Service series of concerts from the 10th to the 14th of July at the Music School and St. John’s church, culminating in the full orchestra’s and the Youth Wind orchestra’s presentations just before they set off for the annual overseas tour, this year to Italy.
Each concert demonstrated the extraordinary range of musical talent in our schools, reflecting the superb work done by all the teachers in the music service. They ranged from the Classical Guitar Ensemble, the Youth Choir and the Jazz Big Band among several others.
The head of the Music Service Ciaran O’donnell was fulsome in his praise and appreciation for the support provided by all the Friends of The Music Service and Rotary, and it was fitting that 2 presentations were made by Rotarians..
Firstly, Past District Governor Richard Green, representing the President of the City of Wolverhampton club Charles Cox presented the Grace Edwards award to Elsie Matthews, who had achieved 141 marks out of a possible 150 in her grade 1 examination.
The Grace Edwards Award is presented in memory of the Wolverhampton teacher, widow of Mr Brindsley Edwards, the former Headteacher of Pendeford High School. Grace Edwards was an ardent supporter of the Youth Orchestra and regularly attended their concerts. A cheque is presented annually to the pupil who gains the highest mark in a national exam board grade 1 to 5 exam and is to be used for books, music or instrument costs.
Then it was a proud moment when Tim Dukes, son of Fraser, presented the annual Fraser Dukes memorial trophy to Claudie Leary-Broomhall. Ciaran O’donnell described the late Fraser Dukes as a highly respected Rotarian who had, amongst his numerous significant services to the community, led the Rotary International programme in the District for the elimination of polio worldwide.
The award is given to the student who achieves the highest marks in external examinations.This year the winner was Jack Turner for his grade 6 Jazz saxophone examination marks. Jack was unable to be present so the award was accepted on his behalf by his teacher from Heath Park school, Claudie Leary-Broomhall.
As to the concert itself, the standard of music was stunning. The full Youth Orchestra, under their conductor Catriona Roberts included in their programme ‘The Grand March’ from Aida by Verdi – instantly recognisable, providing a rousing start. The also included, amongst other pieces ‘Chariots of Fire’ by Vangelis.
In the second half, the Youth Wind Orchestra, under their conductor Russell Lock included a new piece, written by a member of the orchestra Tom McDonald called ‘Parade,’ and they also gave us a selection of James Bond theme tunes.