14th November 2025
Fresh off the plane from Los Angeles, where 48 students and 5 staff had the experience of the lifetime, Christmas Concert solo auditions took place last Tuesday. Congratulations to all those who were successful, and we very much look forward to your polished performances in just a fortnight’s time. The concert itself will take place on Friday 28th November in the Chapel, starting at 7pm – in addition to these soloists, we look forward to showcasing the fruits of the labours of many of our ensembles, including the Ratcliffe Orchestra, Swing Band, Choir, String Ensemble, Guitar Ensemble, Flute Choir, Brass Ensemble Woodwind Ensemble and Gentili Ensemble, as well as the Chapel Choir and Newman Orchestra from the Prep School. In addition, we are thrilled to be re-launching the Year 7 Choir, and are most excited to having all of our newest cohort opening and closing the show. Tickets are selling at an exciting rate for this wonderful event, so I would encourage you to book soon to avoid disappointment – the booking form can be found on the letter sent to parents last month. We look forward to welcoming you to Ratcliffe in a fortnight’s time.
On Tuesday, we held our Senior Remembrance Service in the Chapel, in which the Orchestra played a key part in accompanying the hymns, and the Choir delivered a beautiful and poignant rendition of ‘Tears in Heaven’ as wreaths were laid on the altar. I would also like to give a mention to Year 11 student John Bowden, who despite the additional pressures of his mock exams, stepped up to perform The Last Post and Reveille, with this being the first time in a number of years we have had a student perform this key part of the service. John showed tremendous courage and we are extremely proud of him.
Another huge congratulations to Year 7 student Phoebe Blow, who performed ‘Somewhere Over The Rainbow’ so beautifully in this morning’s Celebration of the Word in front of the whole Senior school, the theme of which was Anti-Bullying. Again, Phoebe showed such courage here and it is heartening to see so much musical talent being showcased at all age ranges.
We have much to look forward to over the coming weeks, in addition to the Christmas Concert, as the festive season begins. On Monday, we welcome an ABRSM examiner for our termly session, I would like to take this opportunity to wish all those taking an exam the very best of luck. The following day, we have our Scholars’ Concert, always a special occasion as we celebrate the talents of the department’s finest. Rehearsals for the Menphys Carol Concert on Friday 5th December at De Montfort Hall are going very well, and the final week of term will also be a busy one with Music on the Balcony and the Senior Carol Service.
Wishing you all an enjoyable, musical fortnight.
Mr Harris, Director of Music
