West Norfolk school opens doors for Christmas Concert

Young performers at a West Norfolk school are putting on an evening of festive musical favourites designed to get all the family in the Christmas spirit.

The Marshland High School Christmas Concert takes place on Thursday, December 14 in the main hall at the school, a member of the West Norfolk Academies Trust, with tickets costing £2 each.

“We have had a Christmas concert at Marshland every year since I started at the school in 2017,” said Head of Music Aaron Hester, who is organising this year’s event with the assistance of music teacher Kevin Bell.

Students from Years 7 to 11 will be taking part in the evening’s entertainment – both on stage and behind the scenes.

“My role as Head of Music is to consistently provide our pupils with opportunities to perform at the school by putting on these termly concerts, and to give pupils space, time and resources in the department to explore their interests in music,” explained Mr Hester. 

“I have also appointed junior music ambassadors in Year 7 and Year 8 who will be taking on technical roles. These pupils have learnt about live sound set up and will learn all about back-line stage support for live events when we run our dress rehearsal.”

The concert will feature a range of Christmas classics, and more than 100 people are expect (ped to attend.

“Students will be performing renditions of popular Christmas bangers, along with other popular songs,” continued Mr Hester. 

“Songs will include ‘Last Christmas’ by Wham!, ‘Fairytale of New York’ by the Pogues, and ‘Do They Know It’s Christmas?’ by Band Aid.”

Other highlights include the first performance of the school’s newly formed Year 7 band, with Jessica-Jane George and Alicia Almeida on vocals, William Warwick on guitar, Jack Webb on bass, Jake Martin on piano, Chris Mullins on drums, and Rhys Archard on keyboard. 

In addition, there is a choral performance from Year 7 pupils, along with solos from Amelia Walters and Auguste Nakraseviciute, who are both in Year 10, while recent Smithdon graduate and musician Jack Calvert has returned to the school for work experience and will also be supporting the event.

“Our music concerts continue to be an integral part of our school culture,” added Mr Hester. “It’s an opportunity for pupils to be part of something special they’ll always remember, as well as showcase their talents and represent our school.

“These events also provide other opportunities for non-musical roles for our pupils, such as welcoming guests, stage management, compering, and using a mixing desk. The important thing every time is that all pupils involved are excited about it and understand its importance to the school.

“Ultimately it’s about continuing to raise the profile of these events at Marshland, so we can continue to put them on and provide these opportunities for our pupils moving forward.”

The Christmas Concert takes place at 6pm on December 14, with tickets available in advance through the school’s ParentPay system or on the door (card payment only).