Simply Inspirational!

Now That’s What I Call Commonweal, Vol Five is released on Saturday 26th
June to coincide with the school’s community performing arts marquee, staged at
The Lawn as part of the Old Town Festival.

“This year we have a bumper crop of talent from students past, present and future, oh and a few members of staff as well! The CD is put together throughout the year by our arts technician Nick Weaver, who is himself a great singer songwriter. Nick wrote the song I sing on the album which is about a couple living in harmony and being really happy with their life. Nick is a great asset to the school,” commented Josie Williams, community arts development officer.

Nick went on to explain. “It is my role to compile the album and I never have any trouble finding tracks and in fact have to make some hard decisions about what we can squeeze on! These recording sessions are always lots of fun and very energetic. We always try to show the diversity and wide range of styles, from rock bands to classical compositions and some great acoustic songs.
This year has seen  staff poetry, from the creepy tale of science imaginings from Mr Walker and a moving journey through  a war scenario written Mr Jamieson. There is also a beautiful love poem by student Harry Vincent accompanied by some haunting piano from Becky Pour. Harry is about to leaves us, but he will not be forgotten, as he never lets his visual impairment get in the way of charming the ladies!”

“From doing GCSE music to being on CD has given me a greater knowledge of theory, tech and performance. I am really happy to be on the CD and it gives everyone a chance to show off their capabilities,” Sam Cantlon from the Over & Outs.

“The CD gives you a chance to show your work, plus you also find out about other performers in the school. It was a really good experience, the school have given me loads of opportunities to perform with out Commonweal I wouldn’t have had as many chances to share my passion for music.” Sophie Goldsworthy, Yr 11 who starts New College in September studying, photography, music tech, textiles or dance.

“Commonweal has given me the opportunity and the confidence to perform. The school gives a lot of support so I wouldn’t be where I am now without  their encouragement . I start New College in September and am studying BTec Performance and psychology I wouldn’t have considered the performance course without the experience gained at Commonweal School,” Connie Paul

As part of our outreach work which this year linked in with the national Sing Up initiative  future students from both Lethbridge and Even Swindon primary schools have recorded songs especially written by Nick. Lethbridge school Yr 6 song is about different races living together in harmony and Even Swindon’s song is about moving up to big school. All in all, a great blend once again, and something for all tastes and another positive reason to show that Commonweal really is a happening Performing Arts School! Now That’s What I Call Commonweal Vol 5 is available from the school and at the Old Town Festival priced £5.00.

In total a 152 students, past, present and future plus staff took part in the project.

Some of Yr 6 Lethbridge Primary School

The Over & Outs