51 of our musicians had an incredible trip to Spain during the first week of the Easter holidays. As well as giving fantastic performances at Poble Espanol and Loret de Mar, their packed itinerary included visits to Barcelona (Las Ramblas and La Boqueria Market), a visit to the beautiful medieval walled town of Girona and then the castle at Tossa de Mar. They also had plenty of time at the beach and shopping! Their hotel at Santa Susanna was right on the beach where they walked along the promenade every evening. On the last night they had their annual talent show hosted at a local café.
The students behaviour was impeccable and so many members of the public commented on their high standard of performances, fantastic manners and friendliness.
Year 8 student Hettie Hawkin is in the choir as well as the school’s rock band. She said, “For me, the highlight of the trip was the performances. The locals were so lively and danced along, and we had some pretty big crowds. I went on the trip last year as part of the choir but this time, being a singer in the rock band, I was more on the spot. It was a bit nerve-wracking but once I was performing, it was fine.”
Music Teacher, Sara Maclachlan, commented, “It was just brilliant! It was great to see the students getting along together so well, as well as seeing them performing together. Children from local schools came to watch the performances too, which was lovely. It was such a shame we had to cancel our third and final concert because of heavy rain.”
Susanna Cooper, Director of Performing Arts, added, “We are very proud of all our musicians, not only did they perform so well in Spain, but the William Howard School choir also achieved first place in the recent Carlisle and District Music and Drama Festival. We’re now looking forward to more performances this term in venues closer to home, such as The Source in Carlisle.”
A big thank you to the staff who made this wonderful experience happen – Mrs Cooper (trip leader) Miss Maclachlan, Mrs Gregory and Mr Byers.
