Dover Court International School GCSE and IB Music Showcase 2023

Parents and friends of Dover Court’s GCSE and IB musicians were treated to an extraordinary musical journey, as well as one or two canapés in Cooper Hall on Thursday 16th February.

The pieces selected were both classical and contemporary, and included an extremely rare performance of the conceptual masterpiece 4’33’’ by John Cage. As part of the music courses within the General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) and the International Baccalaureate (IB), students are exposed to a vast variety of music genres.

They learn how to expand their musical identity, demonstrate their level of musicianship, and learn to share and communicate their music as researchers, creators and performers. It was wonderful to see the confidence of the students and how they have embraced their learning through their courses. The music team has shared some of the thoughts and feedback the audience gave us directly after the show.

"It takes real courage to perform in front of your peers and parents and take an audience through a range of emotions from foot stamping beats to heartfelt melodies. I loved every minute of the performances, and each one was a real treat. Well done to all students and the Music team for making the event happen." - Mrs Edwards, Head of Secondary

“I was really nervous about being on stage, but it felt like an achievement afterward.” - Year 10 student

“My highlight was Finley Wray on the Bass - he was so confident and fluent.” - Year 10 student

“Yi-Wei’s harp playing was really magical. I had never seen a harp in a real-life performance, this was really exciting.” - Year 8 student

“This was an outstanding concert. The talent of the students takes your breath away…” - Mr Chambers, Primary Music Teacher

Thank you to all parents, staff and students for joining and showing your support to our Year 11 and Year 13. We wish them the best of luck as they work on tweaking their performance coursework after performing in front of a live audience!