School choir shines at annual music festival

The concert formed part of the annual music festival run by Leicestershire Music Hub and, for the first time, Humphrey Perkins was fortunate to be one of seven schools to perform live on stage.

Our performers arrived at the venue in the afternoon for a dress rehearsal before the evening’s main show. Many were awestruck when they first walked into the vast venue, marvelling at its sheer size. One pupil remarked, "This is my childhood dream come true."

After a quick run-through with the live band and other schools, there was just enough time for a quick pizza – which certainly helped settle the nerves – before the first curtain call.

Students sang five songs, all taken from a collection of acclaimed musical theatre productions; “Found/Tonight” from Hamilton and Dear Evan Hansen, “School Song” from Matilda, “He Lives in You” from Lion King, “Sit Down, You're Rocking the Boat” from Guys and Dolls and “42nd Street” from 42nd Street.

Since Christmas, choir members had spent considerable time learning the lyrics, practising the harmonies and memorising the dance movements. The level of performance emphasised just how hard they had worked and how much effort they had put in.

Our students contributed to a stunning evening of music which also included a Primary School Massed choir, a Special Schools massed choir, as well as the Music Teachers Choir.

“This was the first time Humphrey Perkins had been able to take part in this project,” explained Music Teacher, Mrs Hussey, “Our students had such a great experience performing [and] we will definitely be applying to take part again next year.”

Regarding the event, a parent spectator also said: “I was fortunate enough to be able to watch the show and see my daughter have an amazing time. The whole choir did Humphrey's proud and seeing their faces as they sang and danced brought a tear to my eye.”

A huge congratulations to all the performers in our choirs, who were tremendous role models for our school, and the staff who supported them every step of the way.

Team HP look forward to returning to De Montfort Hall next year.