Hall for Cornwall Concert 2025

Truro School’s Hall for Cornwall Concert was a spectacular showcase of musical talent, bringing together pupils and students of all ages in an evening that highlighted the power of music to inspire, connect, and enrich the school community.

From the outset, the evening was filled with energy, as the Jazz Orchestra, directed by Matthew Harrison, opened with a dazzling rendition of Feeling Good before treating the audience to The Way We Were and Cantaloupe Island. The Rock Band, coached by Tom Holland, followed with a moving rendition of Foo Fighters’ Everlong, bringing a contemporary edge to the programme.

Classical music lovers were captivated by the beautiful Suite Hébraïque by Ernest Bloch, performed by Victoria Stolte on viola and Stella Pendrous on piano, before Prep’s Year 3 took the stage under the direction of Angela Renshaw. Their performances of As I Was Going to St Ives and Harvi Darvi celebrated Cornish heritage and the joy of language through song.

The evening continued with jazz standards Four by Miles Davis and Strasbourg/St Denis by Roy Hargrove, performed with skill and sophistication by Silver Sax. The Wind Band, directed by Alan Pope and Rebecca Bingham, brought cinematic magic to the stage with a thrilling performance of music from Chicago and The Incredibles, drawing on the school’s recent theatrical success with Chicago in the autumn term.

After the interval, the Symphony Orchestra, led by Richard Osmond, delivered a breathtaking performance of the E.T. Flying Theme by John Williams, followed by William Mathias’ Serenade for Small Orchestra. The evening also showcased individual talent, with Imogen Hawkins delivering a virtuosic performance of Monti’s Czardas on alto saxophone, accompanied by Frances Eagar.

The Vocal Ensemble, directed by Frances Eagar and coached by Heather Mee, enthralled the audience with a stirring Phantom of the Opera Medley, before the Chamber Choir delivered a moving rendition of Londonderry Air and the newly formed a cappella group, Pitchforks, performed Misty.

The event concluded with a special performance by the 1st Years, showcasing their Instrumental Scheme, directed by Sarah Whomersley. This initiative, which introduces every 1st Year pupil to orchestral instruments and ensemble playing, reflects Truro School’s dedication to fostering a lifelong love of music.

The Hall for Cornwall Music event was a testament to the breadth and depth of musical talent at Truro School, as well as the school’s strong commitment to providing pupils and students with opportunities to perform and grow as musicians. With music continuing to play a vital role in school life, the event not only celebrated artistic achievement but also reinforced the power of music to unite, inspire, and transform.