It’s been a week brimming with musical exploration for students across Meridian Trust schools!
On Monday, nearly 150 GCSE music students from various trust schools converged at Ely College (part of Meridian Trust) for a captivating workshop delving into the rich tapestry of North Indian music.
Organised by Audrey Caldwell, Performing Arts Curriculum Director at Meridian Trust, this workshop provided a unique opportunity for students to delve into an essential component of their GCSE curriculum – World Music. Led by experts, the session offered a multi-faceted experience, encompassing the history, instruments, and distinct features of Hindustani classical music.
Students weren’t just passive listeners; they actively participated in learning how to play and sing Indian Ragas, even exploring improvisation techniques. This hands-on approach undoubtedly ignited a deeper appreciation for this complex and beautiful musical tradition.
Later in the week at Stamford Welland Academy (also part of Meridian Trust), a vibrant collaboration unfolded. Over 180 students from Stamford schools joined forces for the electrifying Singsation! workshop.
Led by the captivating Hayley Sanderson, vocalist for BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing and recent backing vocalist for chart-topping artists, the workshop brought a taste of pop stardom to the young singers. Singsation! is an interactive program designed to ignite a passion for music and make it accessible for all students, perfectly aligning with the focus on a well-rounded curriculum at Stamford Welland Academy.
Before the workshop, students from Stamford Welland Academy, Bluecoat Primary School (also part of Meridian Trust), St. Gilbert’s Primary School, Malcolm Sargent Primary School and St. Augustine’s Primary School diligently practised a diverse repertoire. The highlight was a powerful David Bowie medley, a true test of teamwork. Each school practised separate harmonies, and the workshop culminated in a truly impactful piece where their voices blended beautifully to recreate the legendary sound of David Bowie. To cap off the experience, the students learned a selection of hits by chart-topping artist Dua Lipa, adding a touch of contemporary pop flair.
The workshop itself transformed into a vibrant masterclass as Hayley and her professional band coached the students on harmonies, timing, and vocal technique. But the learning wasn’t one-sided! Hayley and the band also treated the students to a show-stopping performance of their own, belting out a full-band rendition of Amy Winehouse’s iconic “Valerie.”
“Here at Meridian Trust, we believe that a rich and diverse musical education is essential for all students,” says Audrey Caldwell, Performing Arts Curriculum Director. “This week’s workshops offered a wonderful opportunity for our students to explore the vast spectrum of music, from the timeless traditions of North India to the electrifying energy of contemporary pop. Witnessing their enthusiasm and growth throughout these experiences is truly inspiring.”
These workshops perfectly exemplify Meridian Trust’s dedication to fostering a love for music in students of all ages and backgrounds. From exploring the intricacies of North Indian classical music to belting out pop anthems in harmony, these experiences provide valuable learning opportunities while nurturing a lifelong passion for the arts.
