Photo: Sixth form pupils from Wilberforce House accept the Winner's trophy at the House Music Festival 2019

The strong and varied musical talents of Pocklington School’s pupils were showcased during the Sixth Form-led House Music Festival at the School’s Tom Stoppard Theatre. In total, 225 pupils from each of the School’s four houses chose music and practised among themselves before performing for two nights in a variety of styles in front of packed audiences and a judging panel.

 The quality of music produced on the first night was high, with finales arguably being the best we have heard in many years. Following some helpful feedback from adjudicators Kate Hart (Pocklington School Woodwind Tutor) and Charlie Rhodes (OP), the second evening reached even greater heights.

 Of the instrumental pieces on offer, Wilberforce played to their strengths, performing a note-perfect performance of Pachelbel’s Canon. However, it was their exceptional performance of Steve Reich’s minimalist piece, ‘Clapping Music’ which created most buzz and discussion. Dolman gave a strong performance of the theme from ‘Rocky’, and Gruggen presented ‘Feeling Good’, with Ben Burton featuring on trumpet. Hutton gave a confident rendition of the George Michael classic, ‘Careless Whisper’ with a superb saxophone solo by Adam Smith.

The Choral items were strong, with all houses finding appropriate, yet diverse repertoire to reflect their strengths. Wilberforce presented the well-known 'Hallalujah' in a three-part arrangement, whilst Hutton excelled with a lovely rendition of 'Man in the mirror' with some confident solo singing. Gruggen produced a good two-part arrangement of 'California Dreamin', 'though it was their all-male performance of 'Stand by Me' that brought the house down thanks to the incredible solo by Joe Cheney. Dolman completed the choral items with 'Like I’m Gonna Lose You' with First Year Hattie Cobb singing a confident solo to begin the arrangement. It now appears to be de rigueur to have a conductor for the choral items, and certainly this has led to a strong sense of ensemble, though the adjudicators reminded houses that this should be used only when it enhances performance. 

Each house concluded with their finale, a choreographed arrangement of a pop song, accompanied by some of the best bands we have heard in years. The performances had an excitement brought by superb choreography, colourful costumes, and moments of laugh-out-loud humour! Hutton began with ‘Lay All Your Love on Me’, confidently sung, colourfully costumed, and tightly choreographed. Wilberforce’s ‘Blame it on the Boogie’ captured a 70’s feel with afro wigs and flares (!), yet brilliantly sung, and supported by an excellent band.  Dolman presented ‘Classic’ by MKTO, again confidently sung, and well-choreographed. Finally Gruggen opted for ‘Hot and Cold’, colourful and loud as the singers belted out the chorus with real passion! The sheer enthusiasm of the whole house captivated the audience who loved every moment of this song. 

Prior to the presentations, the audience were treated to the Art Department’s interpretation of the East 17 classic, ‘Stay Another Day’ – laughter all around, but we must express our sincere thanks to the staff who have put on these entertaining items for many years. When it came to the presentations, the audience were held in suspense. The judges congratulated all performers, making special mention to the 6^th form organisers from each house. Then the award for the best individual item over the two nights was given to WILBERFORCE for their unique performance of ‘Clapping Music’. After careful deliberation, the overall trophy was also awarded to WILBERFORCE, received by screams of joy from the packed balconies.

Please click here to view the Flickr album from the House Music Festival 2019

Please click here to view the House Music Festival 2019 video on YouTube

Please click here to view 'Stay Another Day' - performed by West Green 17 on YouTube