More than 60 of our talented student musicians took to the stage at Carlisle’s iconic The Brickyard on Tuesday evening, delivering an unforgettable night of live music to a packed and enthusiastic audience.
The venue was buzzing as flashing stage lights, professional sound, and an electric atmosphere gave students the chance to experience performing at a real live music venue. Before the performances began, every act took part in a full professional soundcheck, learning first-hand how a live gig comes together behind the scenes.
The evening featured an impressive variety of performances, from full rock bands and acoustic trios to solo singers and instrumentalists. Students selected their own repertoire, resulting in a diverse set list spanning rock classics and modern favourites, including music by Green Day, Nirvana, Paramore, Foo Fighters, Joan Jett & the Blackhearts, Franz Ferdinand, Kaiser Chiefs and many more.
Family, friends, staff and members of the local community packed the venue, creating an incredible atmosphere as they cheered every performance. The energy throughout the evening was infectious, with many audience members singing along, dancing, and calling for an encore at the end of the show.
The event was expertly hosted by Sarah Ledger, who brought warmth, humour and enthusiasm to the evening. As one of her final school events before leaving William Howard School at the end of the academic year, it was a fitting celebration of the school’s vibrant musical community.
Miss Maclachlan, Music Teacher at William Howard School, said: “It has been incredible to watch our students develop in confidence and musical ability over the past year. For many, this was their first experience performing in a professional venue, and they rose to the occasion brilliantly. Having the opportunity to perform with full stage lighting, professional sound and a complete soundcheck made the experience truly authentic.
“A huge thank you goes to Anthony, Dom and everyone at The Brickyard, who made the students feel so welcome. Dom who also owns ‘Wreck Studios’, in Carlisle, took the time to explain every part of the setup and involved them throughout the soundcheck, giving them a real insight into what it’s like to perform professionally. The students showed outstanding commitment, teamwork and courage, and seeing a packed venue supporting them was incredibly special. They should all be immensely proud of what they achieved.”
Year 9 student Will Mackie remarked: “My favourite part of the gig was the energy and the real sense of community. Everyone came together, the crowd was so supportive, and it made the whole night feel really special. The way Dom and the Brickyard staff looked after us was brilliant and made it feel like we were professional musicians. It was such a great experience – I can’t wait to do it again!”
The success of the evening highlighted the thriving music department at William Howard School and the remarkable dedication of its young performers, many of whom have only recently begun learning their instruments.
Music lovers won’t have long to wait before the next opportunity to hear the school’s talented performers. William Howard School’s annual Summer Concert will take place on Monday 13th July and Wednesday 15th July, both starting at 6.00pm. Tickets are available from the school reception.
