The annual 2 Schools in Concert, featuring the musical ensembles of Michaelhouse and Hilton College, once again provided a fitting start to the final derby weekend of the quarter. Hosted this year by Hilton College, the concert brought together musicians from both schools in an evening that showcased the breadth and quality of music-making that exists within the two communities.
Michaelhouse was represented by the Orchestra, Jazz Band, Chamber Choir, Chapel Choir and three Marimba ensembles. The Orchestra opened the evening with an engaging programme consisting of the Game of Thrones theme by Ramin Djawadi, Elgar's Nimrod from the Enigma Variations, and a lively arrangement of Pirates of the Caribbean. Their performance demonstrated both musical maturity and versatility.
The Jazz Band continued the evening with a varied set featuring KwaLanga by Siya Charles, The Day We Are Truly Free Part 2 by Viwe Mkizwana and Bobby Caldwell's What You Won't Do for Love. The band performed with confidence and style, and special mention must be made of the Matric members who took part in their final 2 Schools Concert. Nate Ross-Kent provided his customary solid foundation on bass guitar, Nic Hornby impressed with his expressive piano solos, Harry Witherspoon brought energy and flair through his guitar playing, while Brent Tayengwa's outstanding leadership and inventive alto saxophone solos were a highlight of the evening.
The Chamber Choir presented a contrasting programme, beginning with Palestrina's Sicut Cervus, before moving to Bob Dylan's To Make You Feel My Love and ending with the energetic Bright Lights Bigger City from the film Pitch Perfect. Their polished and engaging performance was warmly received.
The Chapel Choir performed three works that reflected both the ensemble's versatility and its strong South African identity. Christ My Refuge, arranged by choirmaster and Head of Music, Gareth Dry on a theme by Elgar, was followed by the traditional South African work Eloyi and concluded with Weeping by Dan Heyman, also arranged by Gareth Dry. Outstanding contributions from soloists Corban Chellan, Max Oliva, Darren Phala, Kwanda Dumasi, Mpho Thipa, Lehakoe Tsotetsi, Nsovo Makobela and Keamo Noge added further distinction to the choir performances.
During the interval, audiences were entertained by performances from the Junior Marimba Band, the 2nd Team Marimba Band and the Competition Marimba Band. Particularly noteworthy was the Junior Marimba Band's first public performance. All three ensembles performed to an exceptionally high standard and were enthusiastically received by the audience.
Throughout the evening, the Michaelhouse boys represented our school with distinction. Their performances were of an exceptionally high standard, and their conduct and behaviour throughout the event reflected great credit on themselves our Michaelhouse community.
Congratulations must also go to the Matrics who participated in what was their final 2 Schools in Concert. Their contribution to the musical life of Michaelhouse over many years has been significant, and they leave behind a tradition of excellence for those who follow.
