Chapel has been central to music performances since pupils returned to school this term and the need for year group bubbles has resulted in increased opportunities for pupils to perform in the daily morning services.

The Year 9, 10 & 11 Chamber Choirs and Schola Cantorum have all performed on numerous occasions over the past three weeks. In addition to this, we have enjoyed listening to solo performances by Raphael, Johnny, Tavi, Caspar, Jimmy, Ines, Poppy and Teddy during daily Chapel. Meanwhile, Year 9 pupil Rose and Year 10 pupils Louis and Jimmy have impressed with their accomplished organ playing at the beginning of services. Also, Jake and Milan have performed some beautiful piano pieces whilst pupils enter Chapel.

On Sunday 21st March, boarders and teachers were treated to Evensong with Schola Cantorum commemorating the life of Archbishop of Canterbury Thomas Cranmer, who died on this day in 1556. Click here to enjoy the service.

In a week when the school reflects on the anniversary of closing its doors at the beginning of the first national lockdown, this recording is a poignant reminder of how quickly the Music Department moved into a virtual world. Silent corridors in the Britten Building gave way to a hive of activity online and, over the last 12 months, pupils and teachers have proved to be versatile and passionate about keeping the music going at Gresham’s. Digital content has been both impressive and diverse and although we all look forward to welcoming back live audiences and being able to perform without restrictions, there is definitely a place for this new found virtual stage where we welcome parents, family and friends who would otherwise not be able to see the performances. Keep a close eye on the Gresham’s Media platform on YouTube for some more content.