Music Tour to Wales
The prospect of touring abroad this year remained uncertain as schools returned to ‘normal’ after the pandemic. In addition to the delays at the major ports and airports, our decision to remain in the UK proved to be the right one, and the location of North Wales, with its exquisite seaside resorts, scenery and attractions made for a very successful and highly enjoyable tour. We were also blessed with glorious weather…not usual for Wales!
Twenty-five talented musicians from First Form to Upper Sixth were enough for us to provide a small string ensemble, swing band, chamber choir, flute group, jazz combo and a number of soloists. Two excellent concerts were performed at St Mary’s, Conwy and Holy Trinity, Llandudno. Both venues saw good audience numbers and their appreciation was clearly evident in the two standing ovations we received. We raised just over £500 between the two churches for their charity collections.
Whilst performing at venues is an important part of any music tour, Mr Pennington ensured that pupils also engaged in an action-packed itinerary which included educational activities as well as opportunities to have fun and explore what the destination had to offer.
During the four-day trip, we spent a day at Portmeirion (made famous for its Italianesque architecture and used as the location for the 1960s cult series, The Prisoner), visited Conwy Castle and enjoyed a gentle boat cruise along the River Conwy. Marketed as a trip of ‘highs and lows’, we ventured down into the caves at Bounce Below and enjoyed a relaxing ride on the Snowdonia Mountain Railway with its stunning views. Our hotel, Trinity House, was just a 5-minute walk away from the sea front at Llandudno Bay which gave ample opportunities to explore the Great Orme, its famous pier and enjoy an evening stroll along the esplanade.
Music tours bring pupils together from all years to work and socialise as a team and it was great to see everyone enjoying each other’s company. As Mr Pennington put it… ‘It’s like being on holiday with one big musical family!’ Thank you to everyone who took part and to Mr Hills, Mrs Sawyer, Mr Trim and Mr Rogers, for giving up their time to assist on this tour.
You can watch the highlights here:
