Spectacular Performances of Dido and Aeneas at School and Trinity College, Cambridge
Over the past two terms, the Chamber Choir and Chamber Orchestra have been hard at work bringing Henry Purcell’s Dido and Aeneas to life.
With a talented cast of student soloists and Aeneas performed by Raulph from Harrow School, we had the privilege of staging this production both at our school and at the prestigious Trinity College, Cambridge.
Our school performance on Wednesday 12th March was made even more special by the presence of two distinguished guests: Margaret Conroy, who directed the same production at our school 50 years ago, and Cathy Schofield, who played violin in that original performance. Now one of our dedicated violin teachers, Cathy teaches every violinist who performed in this production.
Two days later, 38 pupils from our talented Senior School choirs and orchestras graced the historic Trinity College Chapel, Cambridge, with a special performance of Henry Purcell’s Dido and Aeneas, led by Head of Choral Music at NHEHS, Mr Harry Guthrie.
“I was delighted with our pupil’s amazing work and with how they performed,” said Mr Guthrie. “Our soloists from Years 10 to 13 rose to the challenge, performing with both dramatic character and musical confidence.”
Prior to the concert, we were thrilled to welcome not only parents and friends, but also alumnae and former parents and former staff, for a fundraising lunch in aid of our 150th Anniversary Bursary Appeal. Held at Trinity Hall in the charming Graham Storey Room, it had idyllic views of the river. Our Chair of Governors, Charlie Altman spoke passionately about our school community and the importance of our Bursary programme. Over coffee, attendees enjoyed an insightful introduction to the opera by Mr Christopher Head, one of our Music teachers, a graduate of the Guildhall School of Music and Drama and the Royal Academy of Music.
This unforgettable event was held to support our 150th Anniversary Appeal to help provide more talented young women with the opportunity of an NHEHS education. The performance was made possible through the kind permission of the Master and Fellows of Trinity College.
Following the captivating performance, complimentary tea and biscuits were served in the Ante-Chapel, rounding off a truly delightful and inspiring experience.
If you would like to donate to our Bursary Appeal, please see the link here. https://www.gdst.net/donate/NHEHS
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