Although quite early in the year, the musicians of Queen’s were a prominent feature of the Taunton Music Festival programme with 35 individual entries across the classes, not to mention the Prep School Choir singing in the final event. Spread over some ten days, there was serious competition from other musicians but as always the classes were conducted in a great spirit of camaraderie and mutual support.

In Senior School, there were some impressive wins, including Georgie in the Woodwind Open Recital,  Amelia in the Vocal Solo Musical 14 and under and Rosie in the Vocal Solo Musical Open but our students also collected an impressive number of second places along with a plethora of Commended and Distinctions awards for their performances.

In Prep School Elizabeth took part in the piano classes, she gained 2nd and 3rd place and fantastic feedback.  Sonia, Ege and Antonin took part as soloists in the string classes and again received some excellent comments from the adjudicator.  Antonin was also delighted to win 3rd place in his large guitar class, especially after waiting to be the last performer! Megan, Jack and Amy took part as vocal soloists in the second week, performing with panache and Amy was delighted to be awarded joint first prize in the solo vocal from a musical show, 8 years and under class.

Mrs Gullick’s Super Strings group, an ensemble of 19 string players from Years 3 to 6, triumphed and was awarded the Greenslade Cup for their outstanding performance.  They were praised for their musicianship and rich sound.

The 47-strong Prep choir from Years 5 and 6 took part on the final day and performed three contrasting pieces, earning a distinction for their efforts and great praise from the adjudicator.

Taunton Festival is always a great event to be involved in and as always our musicians attracted much praise for their preparation and performances. Congratulations to all those involved.