We are at the start of a new year, but we cannot forget the last concert of the old year. The Christmas concert at Ysgol Greenhill on Wednesday, December 18, was a very successful and pleasing end to 2002. A festive atmosphere abounded and the hall was full to capacity with patrons, sponsors, former students and governors of the school.
The scene was set by the string quartet comprising of Jo Cooper, Robert Hodge, Christine Toy and Sophie Roberts, who played carols expertly.
The evening was ably compered by Newman Vincent as he introduced the Intermediate orchestra conducted by Chris Llewellyn, followed by the choir directed by Sarah Ellison, and the concert band conducted by sixth form student Robert Hodge.
Then during the interval, when tea, coffee, mulled wine and mince pies were served by ladies of the PTA, the jazz band set everyone's feet tapping.
The opening of the second half of this outstanding programme was by the newly-formed symphony orchestra conducted by Paul Rapi, and to end the evening the Greenhill orchestra played two new works learnt during the autumn term.
This full evening's entertainment was recorded in an impressive programme printed and kindly donated by Mr. Roger Ferris, of Haven Colourprint.
At the end of the interval, the Christmas draw organised by SOGO was held. The lucky winner took home a television donated by total Fina Elf UK Ltd. The draw was officiated over by Mr. Mark Prestwich from their sponsorship and donation committee. The money raised will go towards the purchase of the new Impani.
SOGO also held their usual raffle when two well stocked hampers were the main prizes. This raffle was well supported and SOGO are always very grateful to everyone for this.
A fond farewell to Mrs. Maureen Shepherd was said, when Chris Barnes presented her with a bouquet of flowers. She had throughout her years at Greenhill always supported the orchestra and as she retired she requested that Chris return to play the drums, so the orchestra played Mission Impossible, with which they won the Urdd Eisteddfod earlier in the year.
The evening ended with a rendition of Hark the Herald Angels Sing, with orchestra and audience joining together.
The next performance at Ysgol Greenhill will be the World Premiere of the musical Hood on February 25-28. Tickets are now on sale from the music department, at £3 each.