Following a fantastic tour, I would like to pass on my sincere thanks to the staff who gave up their first week of holiday to be part of trip to Paris, namely; Janet Pearce, Catrina Macdonald, James Gillam and Tracy Cowper and of course special thanks must also go to Matt Phillips for his support in putting it all together. It wouldn’t have been the same without any of them and the children really benefited from their attention and care. The two groups performed brilliantly and were given many compliments by their audiences, working well as a team to make our trip a great success. I am sure we will all take away some very special memories of our music tour to Paris and I was very proud to lead this talented group of young people.

Here are some thoughts from the children.

"I really enjoyed our trip to Paris and it was a good way to end at WHS. On this tour we had a good variety. We performed at different locations, ate at varying restaurants and had many different audiences. It was orchestra’s first time abroad and it was amazing. We had loads of fun performing, especially when we had old men dancing to our music in the park! It was definitely a success and everyone had a good time."
Daniel Firoozan

"The Orchestra and Cantoris tour to Paris was a fantastic success ad great fun. All three performances were brilliant and everyone tried their best to impress the crowds."
Ben Pointon

"Thank you so much for the tour – it was really fun and a great experience. I especially liked performing at Disneyland because it was so memorable."
Ellis Howell Williams

"The Paris tour has been memorable for all of us. It was a chance to glimpse at music worldwide, outside WHS. A backstage view of the romantic city of Paris!"
Hugh Gordon, Henry Coldstream & Archie Brogden

"Our week in Paris has been thoroughly enjoyable. Although we have been working hard towards this trip for a long time, it was well worth it. We particularly enjoyed our day at Disneyland and our performance in the afternoon was fun, although nerve racking!"
Abigail Spooner, Xa Rodger & Harriet Mainds

"We enjoyed singing in the park because there was such a relaxed atmosphere and the scenery was beautiful. Our second concert was in the Chateau Lormoy, which looked spectacular from the outside and all the people were friendly. Our time spent in the bus travelling around was made entertaining by watching films and listening to music on ipods. "
Anna Wirth, Saskia Jones & Natasha Girling

"I’ve never been to Paris before, so considering it was first trip there it was one of the best holidays ever. We didn’t have the best hotel, but the weather was kind to us, so we got through it without getting too wet!"
Hal Fordham.

There are many more accounts of our trip and these and all the photos, will be available to view on the Paris Tour display in the Music School, next term – thanks to Mrs Cowper!

Many thanks once again to all involved.

Annie Chatfield

Director of Music & Arts Coordinator