We are very proud to announce that our fantastic Head of Music, Ms Durston competed in Swindon music festival in March and won the Songs from Shows and Films class; she then went on to compete in the Senior Vocal Championship against all the winners from each vocal class and won the Senior Vocal Championship trophy! As if that wasn’t enough, she then had to compete in the Supreme Championship (all the overall winners from each instrument against each other) which she also won!!!! Ms Durston was up against some very talented instrumentalists and it is highly unusual for a vocalist to win the overall category. She apparently reduced the adjudicator to tears with her rendition of “Your Daddy’s Son” from Ragtime. Ms Durston is still in shock but we’re not – because she is amazing! We are very proud.
In February the GCSE Music students visited The Platform yesterday to watch the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra. Earlier this year, music students across Swindon composed and submitted a 4-bar melody to the Orchestra. One of these melodies would be selected and used as a starting point for an original composition. We are very proud of our year 11 GCSE Music student, Kellan, who had his 4-bar melody chosen. Our GCSE Music class had the pleasure of watching the composition be performed live, alongside a selection of other works ranging from Baroque to Video Game Music.
We’re also thrilled to share the highlights of our festive events at The Dorcan Academy!
On Tuesday 5th December, The Dorcan Academy choir spread the holiday cheer at St Paul’s Church. The choir had the honour of performing a delightful selection of carols for the Senior Citizens Club. The joy and warmth shared during this event was truly special, and we extend our sincere thanks to the choir members for their dedication and musical talents. (photo of the choir attached, photo permissions checked).
On Thursday 14th December, the Performing Arts and Music department hosted the much-anticipated Christmas Showcase. Our heartfelt gratitude goes out to the dedicated staff members who generously contributed their time to support the production. A special thanks also to the parents and carers who assisted with costumes, organisation, rehearsals, and learning lines. To our wonderful audience, thank you for championing our talented young performers. Above all, a big shoutout to the students whose unwavering talent, commitment, and energy made the showcase truly spectacular. (programme front page pasted below)
Moving on to Monday 18th December, we were delighted to bring back the annual Carol Service to The Dorcan Academy. Students had the opportunity to partake in this traditional service, presenting a delightful array of carols, readings, and a captivating performance by the year 7 choir. A special note of thanks to Reverend Trudie for contributing to the event. (X2 programme front pages pasted below)
Thank you to everyone who played a role in making these events memorable and joyous. We look forward to more celebrations and achievements in the coming year.
Warm regards,
Miss Durston, Mr Roke, Miss Lymn
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