A Summer Celebration in Song

This evening I had the absolute pleasure of attending the Summer Celebration Concert presented by the Oxford Bach Choir and young singers from four Oxfordshire secondary schools: Cheney School, Europa School UK, Fitzharrys School, and Gosford Hill School. Held in the breathtaking surroundings of the University Church of St Mary the Virgin in Oxford, the concert was a joyful testament to the power of music to unite generations, lift spirits, and make memories.

The programme was beautifully structured into three sections: performances by the combined schools, members of the Oxford Bach Choir, and finally, all voices joined in glorious harmony for a combined choir finale. From the opening notes of Cantate Domino by Mark Hayes to the jubilant conclusion with Handel’s Zadok the Priest, the evening was both moving and invigorating.

One standout moment for me – and I suspect many in the audience – was the utterly brilliant arrangement of the Spice Girls’ Wannabe “as an English Madrigal” by Nathan Howe. It was witty, unexpectedly poignant, and so cleverly done. I did, however, find myself wondering whether the young performers view the Spice Girls as being almost as far back in history as J.S. Bach or the composers of actual madrigals! A clever bridging of the centuries nonetheless – and executed with charm and flair.

The Oxford Bach Choir’s segment brought gravitas and beauty, particularly in Judith Weir’s My Guardian Angel and the rousing Alleluja by Bach. It was a privilege to hear these pieces brought to life with such skill.

Kudos must go to the conductors, Rachel Bowen and Ben Nicholas, and to François Cloete, the accomplished accompanist and organist. Their guidance and musicianship clearly inspired confidence and joy in the young singers, creating a warm and celebratory atmosphere throughout.

In an age when the arts in schools are under constant pressure, tonight was a reminder of just how essential music is in helping young people find voice, community, and joy. It was, in every sense, a concert to remember.