We are delighted that our Junior School Chamber Choir won the the prestigious ‘GDST Young Choir of the Year’ competition.  The Choir, comprising girls from Year 5 and Year 6, led by Head of Music, Ruth Coles, gave an outstanding performance as they sang for success in the historic Cadogan Hall, central London.  The talented Choir impressed the judges with their rendition of ‘Circles in Motion’ and a very upbeat ‘America.’  All schools within the Girls' Day School Trust (GDST) submitted entries and six schools were selected to perform at the final on Wednesday 15^th March.

Judging the choirs were: Martha Burke, GDST alumnae and undergraduate at Trinity Laban; composer and operatic singer Susannah Self and Chairman of Judges was Suzi Digby OBE, internationally renowned choral conductor, choir master and music educator.

On announcing Blackheath High Junior School as the winners, Ms Digby commended the girls’ performance, saying: "You displayed a magnificent range of tones and Ruth Coles chose the programme brilliantly.  They were challenging pieces but you succeeded - it was just wonderful."

Proud teacher, Mrs Coles was full of praise for the girls’ efforts, commenting: “I am so proud of the girls’ hard work and commitment in preparing for this event. They knew that in order to show themselves at their best, they each had to put in individual practice as well as working very hard in rehearsals. The girls know that a win is a bonus; if there's one thing they've learnt in choir with me, it should be that sharing music and performance is the point of competitions and festivals. The aim is to show themselves at their absolute best, whatever the outcome. This prize is the sprinkles on a well-iced cake!”

Chief Executive of GDST Cheryl Giovannoni added: “At the GDST, we believe our mission is three fold: to provide inspirational teaching and learning, enlightened pastoral care and brilliant co-curricular programmes.  Music plays an integral part in all three areas, helping girls to learn, enhancing their sense of wellbeing and providing a range of exciting opportunities beyond the classroom.  This is a fabulous opportunity to celebrate the wealth of singing and music making that takes place in our schools and I congratulate Blackheath on their marvellous performance.” 

Well done girls, you have, once again, made us all very proud!  

Click here to see the girls' wonderful performance