Take a talented array of singers and musicians, throw in a healthy dose of competition and an appreciative audience – and you have House Music 2018. On a hot July night the five houses battled for the prestigious House Music Shield, showcasing the extraordinary range of musical ability within the school.
Guitarists and flautists, soloists and ensembles sang and played with emotion, humour and impressive confidence. Leading the evening were the 15 George Abbot Music Leaders – GAMLs – who have organised and inspired house music throughout the year.
Each house had a maximum of 15 minutes, and four acts, to impress the judges: head teacher Mrs Carriett, former student and sound expert James Welch, acclaimed composer Will Todd and Louise French of the charity SANDS. All proceeds from the evening were donated to SANDS, the Stillbirth and Neo-Natal Death charity. Ms Fuller spoke movingly about their work.
Also appearing were the ‘Only Louder’ rock choir and band and the New York tour choir, who sang and danced with energy and passion while the judges considered their verdict.
Would Wyvern triumph for the second year running? Or could another house carry off the trophy for the first time? The result seemed too close to call as Mrs Carriett stepped forward to announce the winner: Phoenix house, inching ahead of Wyvern and Falcon in joint second, and Martlet and Gryphon in joint fourth.
Presentations were also made to the highest scoring ensembles – Wyvern in first place for Free Your Dreams, Phoenix second for September and Martlet third for Rise Up.
This was a superbly entertaining evening which demonstrated both the shining talents of the students and the huge enthusiasm and commitment of the Music Department. Roll on House Music 2019.
