Music making at Egglescliffe is nationally renowned, and has been for many years. This allows us to undertake exceptional performance opportunities; for example we have recently recorded all the English coronation anthems with the world renowned Gabrielli Consort, performed with the National Youth Jazz Orchestra, and recorded a pop song that charted in the UK top 30 to name but three. We regularly perform at top venues such as Durham Cathedral or Sage Gateshead, and with our highest level ensembles we always aim to compete at a national level in events such as the National Youth Brass Band Championships. Our annual Christmas Concert and Leavers’ Concerts attract audiences of 600+ and are renowned in the area for their high standards.
Over 300 students learn a musical instrument or take singing lessons each week and the vast majority are also involved in ensembles that rehearse every week. We provide for all levels of abilities, from the Monday night wind orchestra for beginners or lower grades, to Friday night big band that works at a national standard. We have a variety of vocal ensembles to meet all levels of ability and musical interest and a wide range of instrumental ensembles including a full orchestra.
Music making builds vital life skills. Primarily all our young musicians work together, virtually every day, as one big team. There is a tangible sense of comradery and teamwork in the music dept. Furthermore, rehearsal, practice and performance build perseverance, resilience, reliability and confidence. We are very proud of our young musicians, for the dedication they show, and the often astonishing quality of what they produce.
