Haberdashers’ Monmouth Schools showcase musical talent in Abergavenny concert

Students from Haberdashers' Monmouth School showcase their musical brilliance at a special musical concert in Abergavenny last week.

Musical students from both Monmouth School for Boys and Monmouth School for Girls put on a show to remember and captivated audiences with a mesmerising Choral and Orchestral concert at the Priory Church of St Mary’s in Abergavenny last week.

The event, which featured a diverse program ranging from exhilarating film themes such as Superman and Jurassic Park to classical pieces including Bizet’s Carmen and Giazotto’s Adagio in G Minor, was a testament to the musical talent nurtured within the school community. The joint schools’ choir, comprised of Year 7 students from Monmouth School for Boys and Monmouth School for Girls, delivered a stirring rendition of Vaughan-Williams’ Five Mystical Songs.

Reflecting on the evening’s performance, Mr. Simon Dorman, Headmaster, expressed his admiration, stating, “This was an absolutely stellar performance with an incredible range of repertoires; this is an experience that will stay with our students forever.”

Adding to the evening’s significance was a heartfelt message received by the Director of Music at Monmouth School for Boys, Mr. David Lawson, from former pupil Andrew Henley, now an esteemed international opera singer. Henley’s message underscored the transformative impact of his time singing at Monmouth School for Boys on his life and career.

In a touching tribute to Mr. Lawson’s more than two decades of dedicated and inspirational teaching, students surprised him at the end of the concert with a special farewell piece, marking his final year with the school.

Reflecting on his experience, William (Year 13), who played percussion in the concert, remarked, “I’ve performed in a few of these concerts now – it’s been an amazing opportunity, and I’ve learned a lot.”

Alexander (Year 7), who sings alto in the choir, shared his excitement, saying, “It was fun to take part.” Meanwhile, Isabella (Year 11) expressed her delight, particularly enjoying the Senior Strings performance, noting, “The whole concert was amazing.”

The Haberdashers’ Monmouth Schools extended their gratitude to all the staff and students involved in creating such a sensational evening of music and song. They also thanked the audience, including families, former staff, former pupils, and members of the public, for joining them in celebrating the power of music to inspire and unite communities.