Whitby Music Centre students entertain packed house at autumn concert

This was a chance for the brass, wind and string players to show off their skills and celebrate their achievements so far this term.

It was the first public performance for the youngest violinists, who have worked hard this term to prepare their version of St Anthony’s Chorale.

Whitby Area Concert Band played a lovely selection of seasonal music, including Autumn from Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, the jazz classic Autumn Leaves and a barnstorming version of Ghostbusters.

Young trumpeter Stephen Sweeny was the outstanding soloist in Penny Lane by The Beatles.

Three advanced violinists – Lilac Cavany-Bearman, Anya Liu and Christine Zhang – also provided beautiful solos.

The String Ensemble, directed by Sue Rowland, performed a delightful sequence of dances with a set of folk tunes followed by a sultry Argentine Tango.

Continuing the dance theme, Eileen Till surprised the audience with a lively Lancashire clog dance.

Special guests from Sleights Primary School also featured in the concert.

Sleights After-School Band played three up-tempo pieces and the School Recorder Ensemble showed their skill and musicianship with a super selection of toe-tapping tunes.

The combined bands, under the baton of Gillian Edwards, came together for the Finale – a beautiful rendition of Leonard Cohen’s Halleluyah.

An appreciative audience of families and friends were delighted with this feast of music-making from so many talented youngsters.The Music Centre Bands will be playing again at Whitby Christmas Market in November.

Contact [email protected] for more information about Whitby Music Centre.