Turton School Music Department Christmas Celebration 2014

Last evening I attended with parents, family and friends of our community the Christmas concert. It was not only a celebration of the season for the Music department but their send off for the Head teacher who retires at the end of the term. Many had returned to the school from far away to pay tribute to Mr Porteous.

Tickets had sold out and there was a line awaiting returns and seating.

The concert started off with music from the Wind Band, then we were treated to a performance from former students of a Violin Concerto by George Taylor, accompanied by Daniel Clarke, closely followed by a great moving song by singer Etta James, sung by Anna Tomkinson.

Quickly followed music from the school. Flute Choir, and the Junior Jazz Band.

We where then treated to some Puccini sung by Edel Lucy who has a voice that makes the hair on the back of your neck stand on end.

The Senior Jazz Band then entertained us especially with Charlie Brown’s Christmas.

The interval was taken in the middle Dining Room after passing through the Green Room.

In the second half we were treated to the big band sound of The Managers directed by ex-student Ben Shepherd. (You should go and see these). Continuing in the 007 theme (Edel) the title song from Sky Fall was sung by Alice Finn.

The full Orchestra then performed including "Merry Xmas Everybody” a 1973 song by the English rock band Slade. Written by lead vocalist and guitarist Noddy Holder and bassist Jim Lealades, (Noddy has a book out for Christmas and has been on Radio Manchester all week talking about his life.)

Daniel Fletcher then produced some magic Piano Playing, followed by some great singing by The Voice. Also some violin from 2 rising stars in Year 7.

Ross Smith showed us his skills at the piano with his Christmas Medley, another performance of exceptional quality.

The unforgettable Katy Clayton then sang Someone Like you and finally the whole Massed Band drew the concert to a close with some ear splitting music and some fantastic trumpet playing by senior Aircraftsman Andy and Jay Shepherd. Andy’s previous performances include the Royal Wedding and the Remembrance Day Poppy wall at The Tower of London. The evening ended with the presentation of a Guitalele, a cross between a small guitar and a ukulele to the Head teacher and a great boxing dressing gown (there is a Photo).

Mr Parkinson thanked everyone for their support for the department and especially the head teacher who has supported the Arts and Music so much over the years.

To see all this talent from students past and present reiterated the importance of a broad curriculum which enables our students to become participating members of our community.

Once again thanks for all your support, Buy Your Tickets even earlier next year!

I hope you have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Owen Hughes (Chair)