An Outstanding Carol Concert

On Thursday 14 December 2017, years 5 and 6 from St Joseph's Catholic Primary School performed their Christmas Carol Concert at St Joseph's Church in Highgate. In the congregation watching the performance were parents, carers, family, friends and teachers - and extra-special guests, the Executive Headteacher and Head of School.

The concert consisted of a range of carols and songs both traditional and new, interspersed with Gospel readings reminding the congregation of the wonder of the Nativity stories. The children had been practising their parts for weeks and it certainly paid off.

The two school years, around 120 children, sang in great voice from the altar. There were also soloists, who sang from the pulpit, including a Christmas version of Hallelujah. Readers - helped by Mr Groarke - read from the lectern and were very clear and confident. There were even dancers who performed along the centre aisle during one song.

The carols and songs the children sang were: Somewhere in my Memory; In the Bleak Midwinter; When a Child is Born; Breath of Heaven; What Can I Give Him; We Three Kings; Hallelujah - which featured two particularly fantastic solos; Blinded by Your Grace and Believe. The dancers performed to Breath of Heaven, portraying Mary feeling frightened on the way to Bethlehem. The dance, choreographed by Mrs Horne was very moving and the dancers were very expressive.

The whole performance enchanted the congregation - and even astounded Miss McFlynn, who said it was super-duper-bobbydazzling! A special mention should go to Mrs Loughney for putting the performance together. Most importantly, the concert reminded everyone of the special time of the season and why we celebrate it.

Review by Ondine Farlam