A stunning rendition of a Hollywood showtune by 237 young musicians playing separately in their individual homes has shown that even in difficult circumstances, creativity finds a way.
Members of Hampshire Music Service (HMS) ensembles, who have been practising their instruments online since March, recorded a glorious version of “This Is Me” from the movie “The Greatest Showman” and shared it on social media to a great response of more than 10,000 views. Councillor Roz Chadd, Hampshire County Council’s Executive Member for Education and Skills, praised the video.
“It was a pleasure to watch this exuberant and uplifting performance from such accomplished young musicians and vocalists, who have not seen each other face to face for more than three months. They are a credit to the Music Service and their teachers’ ability to adapt to remote learning, with 2689 pupils having lessons delivered by video link every week since March.
“Normally at this time of year the Music Service is organising end of term concerts, ensemble trips abroad and summer holiday activities, and I hope these can return soon. In the meantime, I would like to congratulate all those who took part in this video and the many other collaborative performances that have been shared online and brought joy to thousands at this difficult time.”
Another boost to the Music Service came this week when two of its ensembles, the Hampshire Flute Choir and the County Jazz Orchestra, performed in the first ever Music for Youth National Digital Festival, also on YouTube.
Hampshire Music Service, which runs 70 ensembles and provides musical tuition to Hampshire schools, is currently supporting all schools across the county with a wide range of music provision and resources that can be accessed remotely from home.
A varied and wide range of free music learning resources are available for all primary and secondary ages, such as ‘Keep calm and keep making music’ for primary pupils, a set of fun musical activities focused on making and finding out about music through games and song.
