Young musicians from Upton Juniors in Broadstairs topped the charts with outstanding performances at the UK Schools Music Festival.

And a special celebration assembly this week saw the players cheered on as they were officially presented with their certificates and trophies.

People Of the People, one of the school’s pop and rock bands, and the Upton Drum Club performed in separate video submissions in the national event with a chance of being awarded either bronze, silver or gold in their chosen categories.

The band performed a fantastic cover of Fleetwood Mac’s classic track ‘The Chain’ earning them gold with a near perfect scoring of 95/100.

The percussionists played their own composition of a drum battle between one pupil and the rest of the club, winning silver in the junior ensemble category with an impressive score of 85/100.

Adjudicator Michael Armitage praised the Drum Club. He noted: “This was a really fun performance and had some great aspects as an ensemble. The rhythms were really tight and it was great to see it all playing so well in time together, with some quite tricky rhythms.”

Fellow adjudicator Alistair Beveridge was equally positive about People Of The People. “This was a very exciting and confident performance that showed just how well they work together as a group. Overall, this was a dynamic and engaging performance.”

Upton music teacher Graham Smith said that the enthusiastic assembly celebration was thoroughly deserved.

He added: “I am so pleased and proud that our musicians were able to show their talents in this music festival - the musicianship and teamwork shown by all the musicians involved was excellent.

“We held a big celebration assembly for both music groups where they received their well-deserved certificates and trophies.

“As part of the assembly the whole school got to see both performances and the noise of every pupil cheering and clapping at the end was something I don’t think any of our musicians will forget.”

 

 

The UK Schools Musical Festival is a new competition dedicated to promoting music education and inspiring young musicians across the UK.

It states: “Though recently established, our goal is to provide a unique platform for students to showcase their musical abilities and gain invaluable performance experience.

“Our mission is to spark a lifelong passion for music in young students, encouraging them to pursue their musical dreams. Recognising the importance of music education in the development of young musicians, we are committed to nurturing and enriching the UK's musical heritage.”

To find out more go online to www.ukschoolsmusicfestival.com

Upton Juniors is part of the Viking Academy Trust with partner schools Chilton Primary and Ramsgate Arts Primary.

*For more information contact Head of School Darci Arthur on 01843 861393.