Thomas Middlecott Academy, a school in the David Ross Education Trust, has been part of the ‘Music in Secondary Schools Trust’ programme, MiSST, since 2023. Eight aspiring instrumentalists from TMA were invited to join the MiSST ‘Together Orchestra’ in an evening concert of classical and contemporary music.
Two viola and six violin students from year 8 at TMA, played to an audience of friends, family and guests from the MiSST programme. The concert repertoire spanned across the classical, modern, pop, traditional world music and some classics from the musicals, culminating in a whole orchestra and choral rendition of ‘The Circle of Life’ from “The Lion King” by Tim Rice and Elton John.
The audience applauded enthusiastically after every piece, from ‘Mambo number 5’, Elgar’s ‘Chanson de Matin’ and an electric performance of ‘Rhapsody in Blue’ by George Gershwin. TMA students featured in 'Flowers, Mambo number 5 and Hall of the Mountain King', which they have been learning on their instruments since October.
One of the violinists, Ella, said of their experience at the Barbican:
“It was amazing to play on stage in a world-renowned concert hall. I really enjoyed the day, from the rehearsals to putting it all together for our performance.”
Amy Kerr, Director of Music and Head of Expressive Arts at TMA said: “This was a fantastic experience for our students at Thomas Middlecott. I am so pleased that we were able to be part of this collective musical experience. I’d like to thank everyone at MiSST for their support and help with instruments, music and logistics, to stage such an amazing concert.”
Lisa Hawkins, Principal at TMA said: “I am delighted that our students were able to represent our school at the Barbican in London to showcase everything they’ve learnt so far on their instruments. I’d like to thank our dedicated teachers at TMA for helping and encouraging our students, and the MiSST programme for the opportunity.”
The MiSST programme works with 29 schools across the country, often in disadvantaged and challenging communities, by providing funding for classical instruments, regular music tuition, and bespoke musical training for teachers and leaders. Students learning instruments are also offered the chance to take part in performances, such as the 12th annual concert held at the Barbican in April this year, and at the Roundhouse in Camden last year. Over 200 students from TMA have benefitted by being part of the MiSST programme.