Talented music students from St Mary's College took to the stage at Liverpool's Philharmonic Hall this week.  For the 11th year in a row, the college mounted a showcase of the musical skills of its pupils at the famous venue.  The concert was hosted by popular Radio Merseyside presenter, Roger Phillips.

In total more than 175 pupils performed at the event in a number of different musical groups. They included the St Mary's Symphony Orchestra, the Concert Band, the Stage Band, the Baroque String Ensemble and the Flute Ensemble. 

The programme also included the Senior School Choir, the Chamber Choir, the Show Choir and the Prep School Choir as well as a number of gifted soloists.  There were also guest appearances this year by children from two Liverpool primary schools - Bishop Eton in Childwall and the Hamlets Preparatory School in Aigburth.  The young musicians performed pieces from a wide range of styles and genres including the Danse Macabre by Saint-Saens, the Festive Overture by Shostakovich and Palladio by Karl Jenkins as well as a number of popular classics.

The concert was conducted by St. Mary's Director of Music, Simon Emery and Director of Bands, Andrew Byers.  Mr Emery commented: "Our Philharmonic Hall concerts are always one of the highlights of the school calendar and this year's event maintained the very high standards set by our young musicians in previous years.  Of course, a lot of hard work goes into preparing for the concert, but it's always thrilling to see pupils of all ages rise to the occasion and perform so well in such a spectacular setting.  It was particularly special this year to share the platform with our two invited guest choirs.  For many people in the audience, the singing of the combined items was a highlight of the evening," added Mr Emery.

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