Thursday 3rd July saw the annual Summer Concert at Woodham Academy, and as usual it was an entertaining evening which suitably celebrated the hard work of the students throughout the year. The academy ensembles performed as usual, and there was a wide variety of soloists who were keen to be involved as well, from old regulars to newer faces.
Y11 soloists Bethany Clarkson, Keira Durham, Gaynor Lambert and Francesca Porritt performed for the final time at Woodham, after having been a part of almost every concert, musical and talent show that took place during their time here. Along with Liam Brown, who performed with Woodham Jazz Band and Instrumental Group, and Jack Jacob who led Woodham Samba Band so well, they are sure to be missed.
The talent did not stop with Year 11 students, however, with other excellent performances from Year 10 students Emma Sandford, who gave a confident and upbeat rendition of ‘Spotlight’, and Caitlin Finn, with a beautiful performance of Emeli Sandé’s ‘Read All About It’. Year 8’s Kirsty Knight made her début as a soloist at Woodham, with a lovely version of ‘On My Own’ for the piano.
The evening also gave the opportunity to welcome back some former Woodham students. Jordan Jacob, who left Woodham in 2012, returned to the stage with his own single, Underline, performed by Jessica Richardson. ‘Underline’ is to be released to support a Newcastle-based charity. Former student Lauren Sproates also returned to give a vibrant dance performance, prior to continuing her career in Performing Arts in London’s West End.
The evening was rounded off with a performance from vocal group Woodham Sound, followed by presentations to outgoing Year 11 students. Woodham Academy are now looking forward to their next music department event, the Christmas Concert, which will be in December.
