To mark the end of the first half of the Autumn Term, we were delighted to virtually enjoy the hotly contested House Singing Competition, with pre-recorded videos pupils were able to watch all of the entries and the adjudication via video link on Friday 16 October.
This year, despite a few changes to the programme set up, pupils have been enthusiastically learning lyrics to their eighties song choice within their class bubbles since the term began; singing could be heard across the School during many break times! Pupils spent time rehearsing their songs before filming and submitting their final version, in the hopes of impress internationally renowned adjudicator Mr Kennedy, Director of Music at Uppingham School.
The Head of St John’s, Mrs Cole commented: ‘I am so glad we have found a new way to do this, so that an annual highlight of the School calendar can still go ahead!’
Hosting the event, Mr White, Director of Performing Arts commented: ‘It is fabulous that all of the usual spirit and vibrancy is still present despite us not being able hold it live.’
The competition began with the Lower School, with two energetic performances from the Lower Third and Upper Third year groups. As the adjudicator, Mr Kennedy, announced the results, he commended pupils on their efforts especially considering the virtual format this year. Lower Third chose to perform Walking on Sunshine (Katrina and The Waves) and their cheery rendition was described as ‘vibrant, engaging and so much fun’ by Mr Kennedy. The Upper Third’s strong performance of Eye of The Tiger (Survivor), was performed and produced with ‘passion, energy and fantastic air guitar’! Overall, the Lower Third pupils took first place.
A huge amount of enthusiasm and artistic licence went into each House Unison video, including some fantastic dance moves and props. Mr White thanked pupils for the commitment and vigour with which they rehearsed and recorded their video submissions for the competition. Cheering could be heard around the School as the winners were announced, with Gloucester House delightedly taking first place with their rendition of I’m Still Standing (Elton John) followed by South House in second place with 9 to 5 (Dolly Parton) and West House in third place with Just The Two of Us (Bill Withers).
