F.C.J. SECONDARY SCHOOL
Since they returned to school on January 8th, students have been practising hard for the Grade examinations, of the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music London , which will take place from March 19th -22nd. Over 100 students will be examined by Ms. Jane Gregson from the A.B.R.S.M.L. in Flute, Clarinet, Alto & Tenor Saxophone, Trumpet & Trombone in Grades from I -VI.
As Band is an extra-curricular activity in Irish schools, each section has a one hour rehearsal per week, after school. When preparing for a concert or tour extra rehearsals are held at week-ends. Also, each student has a half hour music lesson each week. Because of the forthcoming exams, each group (eg, Clarinets -Grade Ill) is having an hour's rehearsal each week with Gearóid Grant after school : 5.30 - 10.30pm!
At present we are finalising details of a venue for a concert before school breaks up. Unlike American schools, where Band is such an integral part of school life and occasions, we seldom have public performances. It is especially difficult to find a large enough venue. We hope to raise money for an F.C.J. Sisters Mission when we next perform in public.
This year, because of large numbers, Gearóid has kept the Bands in Junior and Senior Sections. Both Sections are rehearsing the same pieces, which so far have included Gymnopedie # 2 (Satie), Jesus Christ Superstar, C & W Jamboree, Tannhauser March (Wagner), Prepare Ye thc Way of the Lord (from Godspell), Dauntless Overture, Rock 'n' Roll Explosion !, Chopin Melody, Christmas Folio, The Sounds of Simon & Garfunkel, Muppet Show Theme, A Man and a Woman & The Girl from lpanema.
Although Choir is no longer on the school's curriculum all students were released from classes to rehearse for the Celebration of the Christmas Mass in the Church of the Most Holy Trinity Bunclody on the afternoon of Wednesday, the 19th of December. Four soloists also sang, including the Appalachian Carol, "I Wonder as I Wander....." The Band accompanied the carols, which were taken from "Celebrate the Child".
Finally, the 6th Year students in the Band were very pleased recently to present a cheque to the Bunclody Lions Club - the proceeds from their Carol Singing & Playing in bitter cold (!) on the evening of Wednesday, the 19th of December .
Eileen Martin
School Secretary
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MUSIC ACTIVITIES
January to Easter 2002
