On Thursday 3 April, Wren Academy hosted its annual Spring Recital, offering a rich and varied evening of music from students across the Academy.  With performances from soloists, ensembles and choirs, the concert celebrated the creativity, dedication and progress of our musicians, including featured performances from our Year 11 GCSE Music students.

The evening opened with a confident performance of from the Orchestra, setting the tone for what was to come.  The full orchestra performed an arrangement of Beethoven Symphony no.5 first movement and the strings performed a piece titled 'Protector of the Realms' by an Argentinian-American composer Nicolas Repetto.  Highlights from the evening also included Matthew L, 11 Strand interpretation of 'Something' by The Beatles, and a piano solo from Oliver F, 11 Walbrook who later returned to accompany the Staff Choir in a memorable performance of 'Let It Be'.

Alice F, 11 Bow gave an energetic and technically assured drum solo, while Ida L, 11 Ludgate delivered a heartfelt performance of a worship song.  Amy F, 11 Bow impressed with a raw and emotional rendition of 'Creep', accompanying herself on guitar.

The String Quartet presented the second movement of Dvořák’s American Quartet with poise and control, and the Gospel Choir closed the evening on a high, performing 'A Thousand Years' and 'What Is This Feeling' from Wicked with spirit and enthusiasm.

Year 11 students played a central role throughout, both as soloists and in ensemble settings, giving a strong account of the work they have been doing in preparation for their GCSE performances.

Our evening included a final performance from Year 13 vocal soloist Harry B, 13 Strand, whose longstanding commitment to the Performing Arts has been outstanding.  His sensitive and nuanced rendition of 'She Used to Be Mine' from Waitress was a fitting farewell.  Equally, fellow Year 13 student Joseph H made an essential contribution behind the scenes, lending his technical expertise to ensure the smooth running of the event.  Both students have played a significant role in the life of the Academy, and while they will be greatly missed, we extend our warmest wishes as they embark on the next stage of their academic journeys in higher education.

The evening was a real testament to the hard work of students and staff alike and to the supportive musical community at Wren Academy.