Xaverian music students have just completed a packed schedule of performances and competitions as part of their courses and extra-curricular activities as they come towards the end of their courses at Xaverian. The Xaverian Music department has an excellent reputation in the region, and the events were an opportunity for music students to showcase their considerable talents using a wide range of instruments, vocal styles and musical genres.
The Chamber Music Concert, held in St. Edward’s Church in Rusholme on 26 June, was directed by Oscar Singfield, one of the department’s music mentors, and Xaverian alumni. Performances included an eclectic mix of genres, from classical works and contemporary music to musical theatre.
The evening was a huge success and performers demonstrated a maturity beyond their years. Their passion, technical proficiency, musicianship, wonderful phrasing, and sweet tones filled the whole church. The concert began with Charlie Fretwell, who performed one of his own compositions, entitled ‘Anglerfish’. The Pierrot Ensemble played a movement from Schoenberg’s ‘Pierrot Lunaire’, and the Xaverian College Chamber Choir sang ‘O Radiant Dawn’ and ‘Psalm 150’.
The concert was the perfect preparation for the choir who also performed in the Llangollen International Eisteddfod on 3 July, which is regarded as one of the most prestigious choral competitions in the world.
The Chamber Choir, comprising 20 Xaverian students and two alumni, and directed by Eleanor Jarvis and accompanied by Louis de Satge, competed in the ‘Youth Choir’ division at the event. The Choir did amazingly well by achieving second place, and received a glittering review from the judging panel and were strongly encouraged to enter the competition again next year.
The Xaverian College Concert Choir competed in the Open Class division at the event on 6 July. Directed by Ged Marciniak, it comprised over 70 Xaverian students, two staff and four alumni, and they finished an incredible fifth position with 88 points. The Concert Choir received a fantastic review from the internationally-acclaimed panel for their impressive performance.
In the Music for Youth National Festival competition held on 6July at Birmingham Symphony Hall, the College’s Orchestra performed ‘The Waltz’ from Khachaturian’s Masquerade Suite and ‘Superman’ by John Williams. The orchestra consisted of over ninety Xaverian students and staff, peripatetic tutors and alumni.
The panel was impressed and gave very positive feedback, and commented that they loved the inclusive range of musical instruments in the ensemble. They continued: “There was much anticipation as you arrived on stage – so many musicians and such a variety of instruments too! And you didn’t disappoint! You raised the roof of the Symphony Halls! You are such a fabulous group of young musicians, clearly having a brilliant time. Considering the array of instruments, you sounded like a full symphony orchestra, which is the biggest compliment!”
One of the busiest fortnights ever for the music department included the Xaverian annual ‘XBand’ concert night on 28 June. The event brings eight student acts together at Manchester Student Union Club Academy where the bands included two jazz combos, fusion from Quadzilla, unbridled energy from Murder Movies, dance vibes from the new Xaverian Latin Band, piano pop from Sam Jeffries, the spirit-raising Gospel Choir and party until curfew with the Soul Band.
Year 13 student, Nick Austin from Manchester, who has just completed A Levels in Music and Psychology and a BTEC in Music Technology, commented: “As a participant in Xband, Eisteddfod and the Music For Youth competition it was a great way for me to experience the performance side of the music industry and get to know the ins and outs of what it’s like to do a gig. As well as being great experiences at amazing venues, we were surrounded and supported by talented musicians and teachers all enjoying what they do.”
Kyle Roczniak from Manchester, has completed his final year at the College, studying A Levels in Music and Media Studies and a BTEC in Music Technology, took part in the Xband concert, and said: “It was a lovely night that showcased the extremely high standard of music-making and performance that Xaverian teaches. It was also a great opportunity for me to pursue my passion of music photography and it was a lovely way to end my time at Xaverian College, bringing together students and staff from various departments, and creating a chilled space for past students to come back and get involved in whatever way they wanted.”
Sam Bishton, former Trinity Church of England High School pupil, said: “Going to Llangollen with the Chamber Choir was a fantastic experience which allowed me to have a great time with friends, sing in a wonderfully large and professional space, and see different musical experiences from around the world. Then returning to Llangollen with our Choir was very special – holding our own in a crowded category, the intensity and power of our singing on that main stage felt electric. Similarly, playing in the Symphony Hall for Music for Youth was a brilliant opportunity, and the feedback we’ve received was very encouraging.”
Andy Levendis, Director of Music at Xaverian said, “The Xband performance never fails to deliver an outstanding concert that lives up to all expectations. The crowd never left the barrier and bounced and shouted all night, it was yet another fantastic evening of live music. Everyone involved in performing and running the event rose to the challenge of scheduling bands of all kinds on the professional stage and all did an amazing job.
Xaverian students are incredibly talented and to take part in so many events, and perform to such high professional standards, is testament to their enthusiasm and musical ability. I’m sure they will go on to have amazing careers in the music and performing arts industry,”
As one of the largest providers of post-16 education in the region, Xaverian College offers an extensive range of A Levels in addition to several BTEC courses – This Is Your Place!