The UoP Concert Band have delighted local primary school children, performing well-known instrumentals from films such as Moana and Wicked.
The UoP Concert Band, comprised of staff and students from across the institution, have delighted local primary school children, performing well-known instrumentals from films such as Moana and Wicked.
The 35+ strong band performed a film-themed 50-minute set to children from Cottage Grove Primary School.
Staff from Cottage Grove said, "We just wanted to send a massive thank you to the University Concert Band for attending Cottage Grove Primary School yesterday. The children absolutely loved it! Thank you for playing songs that they were able to recognise and really truly enjoy whilst getting to hear live music."
The band first started playing in schools in 2014 and has continued to perform at least twice a year since and have played at schools across Portsmouth including Arundel Court Junior School, St George’s Beneficial Church of England Primary School, The New Theatre Royal (in conjunction with Portsmouth Music Services), St Johns Catholic Primary School and Craneswater Junior School.
Ken Wharton-Emms, the conductor of the band said, “Our incredible student managers have organised all of our student concerts alongside their studies. This includes arranging rehearsals, contacting and liaising with the schools, getting equipment to the schools on the day and producing a programme of music that is fun and educational to the age group.”
As well as performing in local schools, University of Portsmouth bands perform regularly throughout the year at venues across the city, including the Guildhall and the New Theatre Royal.
You can catch the Big Band at a free gig on Wednesday 21 May at Outside-In Food Court, Middle Street, Portsmouth, PO5 4BP, from 7.30pm.