QM Chamber Choir Reach GSA Choir of the Year Grand Final

In March 2024, we were thrilled to share that the QM Chamber Choir had secured a spot in the live grand final of the prestigious GSA Choir of the Year competition! Dr Samantha Horseman told us more:

“It was with huge pride that I was able to announce this fantastic news to our girls. This popular national competition has just six places available in the grand final. It is especially brilliant considering our choir is competing against much larger schools, many of which have choirs made up exclusively of Sixth Form students. The competition takes place at Wimbledon High School and the girls will need to present two contrasting pieces for the judging panel.”

Following an exciting day of competition at Wimbledon High School, the girls did QM proud with their performances. Dr Horseman commented:

"I have never been more proud of our Chamber Choir. The girls worked exceptionally, and every single one of them developed hugely as a result of the rehearsal process. It was a real team effort right from YI to my Sixth Form.

The standard they produced was exceptional and though we did not place as winners or runner up, it was clear that our girls were absolutely in line with the other finalists and deserved their place in the event. This is all the more impressive noting that most other choirs were exclusively Sixth Form choirs from much larger talent pools.

The girls were brilliant company all weekend and really looked after each other. Both staff and girls appreciated the support from the whole school community in the run-up, and to a fantastic team of supporters attending made up of parents, governors and Mrs Baillie."

Incoming Head Chorister Lulu also summarised the weekend:

"After an impressive final rehearsal at school, feeling confident, we took off just after lunch on Saturday and made it safely onto the train. At the competition, we sung two contrasting songs, and made a statement of our technicality and versatility.

After observing the breathtaking standard of all of our opposition, I can confidently say that it is a huge achievement in itself to qualify and be awarded the opportunity to perform amongst such talented musicians. Despite the long days and equipped treks, without hesitation, every single girl in our choir put their absolute all into every rehearsal we had - even whether singing ‘In the Park’ or ‘In the Dark’ (choir inside joke!).

It was also lovely to unite at mealtimes and spend time with other year groups. I know we couldn’t have given a better performance. All the girls ought to be extremely proud of themselves - especially considering for most, exams are quickly approaching - and a huge thank you to Mr Reeve (co-op raider, natural airport dad and tube master), Mr Dearsley and Dr Horseman (who we would be clueless without!) but also to any parents that came to support; it didn’t go unnoticed."