A vibrant recital from the School’s younger musicians – and a QE first

From the opening classical march through to the quirky bounce of Baggy Trousers by Madness, the Junior Recital encompassed an impressive range of solo and chamber performances.

There was even a notable milestone for the Music department – the first pupil bassoon performance in the Friends’ Recital Hall since its opening in 2022.

Assistant Director of Music Caroline Grint says the event’s young participants, drawn from Years 7–10, left no one in any doubt as to their ability:  “The word ‘Junior’ in our Junior Recital certainly did not reflect the exceptional standard on display.”

The concert provides younger musicians with the opportunity to perform in a formal setting before an audience of family and friends.

The evening began with a “spirited” performance of Schubert’s Marche Militaire for eight hands by the Piano Quartet and concluded with an “outstanding” rendition of the first movement of John Ireland’s Sonata in G minor by Year 10’s Eshaan Anil, Miss Grint says.

“Other memorable performances included Year 7 pupil Adrian Tai’s commanding interpretation of Poulenc’s Toccata and the Junior Saxophone Quartet’s lively and characterful rendition of Baggy Trousers.”

The first bassoon performance was the Double Reed Trio’s presentation of Trio No. 1 by Ludvík Milde, a 19th-century Czech composer known primarily for his bassoon works. The trio comprised bassoonists Yuvraj Shah and Devansh Nath, of Years 9 and 7 respectively, and oboist Hasan Moochhala, of Year 9. Its name reflects the fact that bassoons and oboes, together with English horn (cor anglais) and contrabassoon, use two pieces of cane tied together.

“This ensemble was newly formed this year to give more support to our up-and-coming young bassoonists, so it was delightful to see them take their first steps as an ensemble in front of an audience in our recital hall, Miss Grint adds.

“The concert highlighted the depth of musical talent emerging through the School, and every performer should be immensely proud of the dedication and hard work that went into preparing such a successful event.”

“Alongside the musical achievements, it was wonderful to see the encouragement, camaraderie and mutual support shared amongst all the performers throughout the evening.”