We couldn’t have wished for a more perfect day for the Music Department’s annual trip to the bandstand at the Horniman Museum. After scorching hot weather at the start of the week, Thursday itself was sunny and temperate, ideal for an outdoors concert. The bandstand at the Horniman Museum in Forest Hill is set against the backdrop of South London, a marvelous vista that captures the diversity of the city: from church spires to the cranes of the City of London, from the vast green spaces to the sprawling estates, the view reflects our city, and indeed, our school.

Even whilst the bands rehearsed and did brief sound checks, the crowds were gathering: friends and families of Wilson’s were interspersed with unsuspecting museum goers and those out for a lunchtime stroll, all of whom eagerly awaited the start of the concert itself. One member of the public talked animatedly about his pleasure at seeing so many young musicians—and was similarly delighted to hear that Wilson’s has a successful cricketing community also!

At midday, the by now sizeable audience was treated to a wonderful programme of family favourites. Dr Clayden’s Mega Wind Band, an ensemble comprised of wind, brass and percussion players from Years 7-13, played hits from movie scores by Hans Zimmer and John Williams, and theme tunes from Aladdin and Family Guy, as well as an Eighties medley that got everyone’s toes tapping, including those of the children from a local primary school, who were dancing with great energy! The Odyssey Big Band directed by Mr Kramer gave the second set of the concert, which featured classics such as ‘Fly Me To The Moon’, featuring Antonio’s vocals, and ‘Ain’t Misbehaving’. The audience applauded enthusiastically and everyone wore beaming smiles.

Huge thanks to Mr Kramer for organising the day and Mr Elwood for driving the minibus. And thank you to all of the returning Year 11 and 13 students, who joined us for a wonderful day of music-making to kick off the summer!