The Piano Evening was an aural and visual treat with eight pianos lined-up for the concert. The standard of playing was as high as ever with some really expressive playing as well as dazzling technical brilliance. Special mention must go to Kate Short, Joanna Sells and Libby Key who came to represent the Prep School. All three girls played with style and were a real credit to their respective piano teachers and Mr Stubbs.
It was good to welcome back OPM, Keith Wong, to take part in the evening. Keith, who along with Mr Green, gave a performance of the Sonata for two pianos by Mozart, which is something akin to a duel for two pianists (the jury is still out on who is the victor). The whole group performances were enjoyed by both performers and audience alike.
One of the traditions of the evening is when Mr Green and Mr Hawken “invite” (drag) members of the audience up to the pianos to take part in an improvised group performance. This year, to break tradition, the Headmaster was not invited to be the first member of the group with a one-note solo - Miss Dunn was selected to take the hot seat. Dr Wormleighton joined the whole ensemble when it was proceeding in roughly the same direction at the same time to add his five note ostinato that was played with assured style and technique, happily demonstrating the progress that he has made over the years.
The evening was rounded off with an eight piano version of The Arrival of the Queen of Sheba, a real sonic treat.