This week we have enjoyed the two of our annual series of VMT recitals, where pupils in all year groups in the School get the opportunity to perform as a soloist in the Performing Arts Centre. These are always lovely occasions and such a wonderful opportunity for us, as teachers, to witness the dedication and love that pupils put into their music studies, and hear the progress they are making. For some, it is their very first public performance and an important lesson in handling nerves, dealing with adrenalin, and experiencing the sense of achievement that follows. For our more experienced performers, it is an opportunity to stretch and challenge themselves with a new repertoire.
A recent BBC article, which you can find here, highlights yet more research into the positive effects of learning an instrument, both for our physical and mental health. While the article itself focuses on the benefits during old age, which may seem a way off for our pupils, it is yet another additional benefit to this valued area of our school life and, potentially, a reminder to us as adults that it is never too late to start a new hobby! We look forward to the remaining recitals in the series next week and thank you to all the pupils and staff involved for their contributions.
