The finale of  the Junior Concert  this term was the première of ‘Samson’, a children’s cantata commissioned specially for the occasion from last year’s School Captain Christopher Gough and sung by the whole of the Pre and First Year.

Chris, currently in his first year studying Music at York University, already has several composing credits to his name, including the fanfare for the Queen’s visit to the School in 2005, and has won a number of awards for his work. A large-scale choral piece, however, was a new challenge for him, and one he rose to magnificently.

The tale of Samson and Delilah was told through eight musical numbers, plus narration, incorporating Lullaby, Tango, Slow Rock and Heavy Funk styles. ‘Samson’ required considerable musical forces and these were delivered in full by the KGS ‘Dreadlocks’ Band and the Pre and First Year Choir, standing six rows deep, singing clearly and loudly and thoroughly enjoying the experience.

The composer had rehearsed with the choir during the day and was present to witness the lively performance and acknowledge the audience’s rapturous reception.

1S were asked for their views. Here are just a few:

‘One of those experiences you look back on and think that was one of the best moments of my life and I shared it with people I care about...from the back you could just about see the parents’ expressions staring at us in amazement.’  Alice Grimley Evans

‘I wish I could perform it again.’ Max Benincasa

‘It was a brilliant experience and I thoroughly enjoyed every moment.  Chris Gough is an amazing composer and a great model for any musical person to look up to.’ Lydia Baines