A message from Ms Wilkes – our Subject Leader for Music…
Welcome to the vibrant world of music at City of London Academy Shoreditch Park! As the Head of Music, I am delighted to introduce you to our dynamic Music department, where creativity and passion for music flourish. Our ensembles, including the Junior Choir, Senior Choir, Boys Choir, Orchestra, Guitar Ensemble, and dedicated bands for each year group, provide students with a range of oppertunities to showcase their musical talents. Additionally, our Music Technology Club and Jazz Funk Band add a modern and innovative dimension to our musical offerings. Our dedicated team of 12 peripatetic tutors from Hackney Music Service offers individual, paired, and small group lessons in a variety of instruments, including the violin, viola, cello, trumpet, trombone, saxophone, clarinet, flute, drums, guitar, bass guitar, piano, and voice.
Throughout the year, our students participate in a variety of concerts, such as the Winter Concert, Spring Recitals, Summer Recitals, Summer Musical, and the electrifying Battle of the Bands. We are proud to foster partnerships with renowned institutions such as the Barbican Centre and the Guildhall School of Music, providing our students with unique opportunities to engage with professionals in the field. Regular trips to the West End to experience live concerts and shows enhance our students’ cultural experiences.
Our broad and balanced curriculum emphasizes listening, performance, composition, and music theory, ensuring a holistic music education for our students. In Year 7, every child learns an orchestral instrument, and they have the option to continue mastering this instrument throughout their time at school. We offer Edexcel GCSE and A-Level Music, achieving excellent results that reflect the dedication and talent of our students. Many of our alumni have pursued further studies in music, a testament to the success of our program. Join us on this musical journey, where every student discovers and nurtures their unique musical voice.
Junior Choir
Our Junior Choir, a lively and enthusiastic ensemble ran by Ms Wilkes, meets every Wednesday from 3:30 pm to 4:30 pm, providing a wonderful opportunity for our young singers to explore their musical talents. We delve into a diverse repertoire that spans Musical Theatre, Pop, and Classical music, ensuring a rich and varied musical experience for our members. The Junior Choir proudly represents our school at significant events, including the COLASP’s Winter Concert and the prestigious Mayor of Hackney’s Music Gala held at the iconic Hackney Empire. Notably, our choir recently participated in the Wren300 project, collaborating with other schools in the trust to commemorate the life and works of Sir Christopher Wren. This extraordinary project culminated in a remarkable performance at St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Guildhall. Our choir has also graced the St. Paul’s Memorial Service alongside the City of London School and City of London School for Girls. Looking ahead, our talented singers are gearing up for an exciting performance of Karl Jenkins’s Symphonic Adiemus with Wyatt Symphonia and other Hackney Schools at EartH, Dalston in March. Join us in celebrating the joy of music and the camaraderie of our Junior Choir!
Senior Choir
Led by the talented Assistant Principal, Ms. Cameron, our Senior Choir is a harmonious blend of voices that meets every Wednesday from 3:30 pm to 4:30 pm. With a diverse repertoire that includes close harmony acapella, classical, gospel, and pop music, this ensemble offers a rich musical experience for its members. Annual highlights include performances at the COLASP Winter Concert and the Mayor of Hackney’s Music Gala at the renowned Hackney Empire, showcasing the choir’s versatility. Last year, the Senior Choir had the distinct honor of representing the City of London Academies Trust at the COLA board dinner, where they serenaded guests after a delightful meal. They also delighted audiences at the Houses of Parliament during the MP’s Children’s Christmas party, showcasing their musical prowess in a unique setting. This March, the Senior Choir is set to join forces with the Junior Choir for an eagerly anticipated performance of Karl Jenkins’s Symphonic Adiemus with Wyatt Symphonia and other Hackney Schools at EartH, Dalston. Join us on Wednesdays as we explore the power and beauty of collective harmony in the Senior Choir!
Close Harmony Group
Our Close Harmony Group, led by the esteemed jazz singer and singing teacher Ms. Rachael Lawrence, meets every Thursday during lunchtime. This exclusive ensemble is invitation only, providing a dedicated spcae for singers to refine their close harmonies, enhance their vocal techniques, and hone their pitching skills under Ms. Lawrence’s expert guidance. The group recently made its debut at our Winter Concert, showcasing their talent with a captivating performance of ‘Jericho.’ If you are interested in learning more about this unique musical opportunity, please reach out to our Head of Music, Ms Wilkes, at h.wilkes@shoreditch.cola.org.uk.
Orchestra
Led by the skilled conductor Ms. Kundu, our orchestra is a prestigious ensemble at COLASP, meeting every Monday from 3:30 pm to 4:30 pm. Ms. Kundu, who studied orchestral conducting at the Royal Northern College of Music, brings a wealth of expertise to guide our budding musicians. The orchestra is a welcoming space where all instruments, regardless of skill level, find a place in the harmonious ensemble. Regular performances at events like the Winter Concert showcase the orchestra’s talent and dedication. Beyond our school walls, the orchestra plays a vital role in the community by conducting workshops for local primary schools. In a recent cultural outing, our orchestra had the incredible opportunity to visit the Barbican Centre and witness a mesmerizing performance by the London Symphony Orchestra, featuring Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 6 and Brahms’s Piano Concerto No. 1. This experience was both inspiring and enriching for our musicians, reinforcing the orchestra’s commitment to musical excellence. Join us on Mondays as we explore the world of orchestral music with Ms. Kundu!
Guitar Ensemble
Our Guitar Ensemble, under the expert guidance of jazz guiarist and film composer Mr. Vitor Pereira, gathers every Tuesday during breaktime to create great music. Open to guitarists of all skill levels, this ensemble has become a regular highlight at our Winter Concert, Spring Recitals, and Summer Recitals. Mr Pereira leads the group with passion, fostering an inclusive environment where musical growth is encouraged. The repertoire is diverse, ranging from classics by The Beatles to the soulful melodies of Stevie Wonder. Whether you’re a seasoned guitarist or just starting your musical journey, the Guitar Ensemble offers a welcoming space to explore, collaborate, and create memorable musical moments. Join us on Tuesdays and be part of the rythmic magic crafted by Mr Pereira and our talented guitarists.
Funk Jazz Band
Our Jazz Funk Band, led by our exceptionally talented percussion teacher, a Latin Grammy Award winner and Olivier Award nominee Mr Hammadi Valdes, is a dynamic force that comes together every Thursday during breaktime. Specialising in a fusion of Latin, Jazz and Funk music, this ensemble creates an electrifying sound that captivates audiences at our concerts and recitals. Under the expert guidance of our award-winning percussionist, the Jazz Funk Band provides a unique opportunity for students to explore the rich and diverse world of musical genres. Whether you’re a seasoned musician or new to the scene, Thursday breaktimes are the perfect chance to join this vibrant ensemble and be part of the rhythmic energy that defines our Jazz Funk Band.
