There was the usual buzz of excitement and anticipation in the run up to the annual House Music competition with lots of rehearsals in full swing around the campus. Who would win the Unison Cup this time? Might it be our turn to shine in the Part Song? This is the one competition that unites everyone in each House as every single student from Year 7 upwards gets the chance to appear on stage at some point during the event.

The Adjudicator, Ms Joy Hill, was delighted to return to Aldenham for a second time. Joy, who has many musical accolades not least conductor at the Royal College of Music Junior Department, praised the supportive atmosphere and respect paid to all the performers at Aldenham before going on to give constructive feedback on each of the pieces.

The best Ensemble went to McGill’s for their slick and powerful performance of Rasputin, which was totally engaging and showed good communication with the musicians. The Part Song winners were Kennedy’s House for their good grouping of ensemble and balance of voices featuring the solos. The electric guitar solo of Toby Freeman in McGill’s was “really virtuosic” as he delivered an effortless performance using his own backups to win this category. All the Unison performances were powerful making it a difficult decision but Riding’s emerged the winners for the brave solo and beautiful contrast they displayed in  their Lion King Medley. And finally the outstanding Conductor went to Theo Theodorou in McGill’s for beautiful gestures and total connection with the singers.

Thanks to all parents and staff who attended and the Music Department for all their hard work.