The Power of Music: Farleigh Talent Past and Present Shining Bright

Two recent musical events have reminded us just how extraordinary Farleigh children are - not only in talent, but in spirit, teamwork and generosity.

The stunning Hospital of St Cross, on the outskirts of Winchester, was the setting for a wonderful Celebration of Spring Concert on a cool early spring evening last week. Hosted by the Hampshire Medical Fund (whose committee includes several current and ex-Farleigh parents), the aim of this fundraiser was to contribute towards the acquisition of a Fourier M2 Robotic Stroke Rehabilitation System for Winchester Hospital, which will transform recovery outcomes for hundreds of stroke patients each year.

Farleigh’s jazz band, 5 ft 6, has been a long-time supporter of the Hampshire Medical Fund, usually performing at The Good Festival on what is often a hot and steamy June weekend. This year, they formed part of the line-up for Celebration of Spring, along with two other distinguished ensembles; Cantores Episcopi, Winchester College’s acclaimed close-harmony group, and the Oscar Ellis Quartet, a group of young jazz musicians from two of London’s leading conservatoires. 

We were all rather blown away by the rich and expressive sound of the Winchester singers who opened the concert with their exquisite a Capella arrangements of folk, jazz and pop songs. The church could not have had a better acoustic and it was a heavenly start to the evening.

Farleigh’s 5 ft 6 and Sub Zero followed on with their signature energy and zest, despite having been slightly scuppered by the sudden illness of their soprano and lead alto saxophonist. A member of the Oscar Ellis Quartet bravely stepped into his big shoes for the evening and did a great job of filling them. The ever-versatile Farleigh musicians did not miss a beat as they made their new soloist welcome, and the show went on! The Oscar Ellis quartet brought the evening to a close with their compelling blend of classic jazz idioms and inventive improvisation, an inspiration to the young Farleigh musicians!

Huge thanks go to the members of 5 ft 6 and Sub Zero for giving up their evening. A particular thanks to Chuff for preparing the children so well, and giving them all his time, energy and support. We are very grateful to the Hampshire Medical Fund for inviting Farleigh to be part of the evening and to play alongside such talented musicians. We very much look forward to supporting the charity again soon!

Teresa Henderson, Performing Arts Coordinator 

As many alumni will remember, there have been many occasions over the years when Farleigh's jazz musicians have represented the school so magnificently far and wide: in Edinburgh (twice), at Stonyhurst College, in Clitheroe, Dummer Down Farm and at the Royal Albert Hall. The children's performance at St Cross ranks highly amongst those occasions and is a tribute to the passion and inspiration provided by Chuff who invariably leaves an indelible mark on these pupils' formative years. 'Roadie' and 'CEO' (that's Chief Executive Organiser) do not feature in any job descriptions but none of this would happen without the invaluable support of Teresa Henderson whose mastery of logistics is second to nobody. But it is the children who shone, and that is how it should be. Huge congratulations to the current generation of Farleigh 'jazzers' who (more than) held their own amongst such talent in Winchester last week.

Marcus Reeves, Director of Music 

Music Making a Difference at Home

Closer to home, Year 7 pupils showed remarkable initiative by organising their own concert and cake sale in aid of the Angel Child Fund at the Brain Tumour Charity, honouring a beloved family member.

The Lower Courtyard overflowed with cakes, supporters and music as the Applebeez band, a string quartet and a talented Year 7 singer performed heartfelt renditions of popular songs. With Mrs Henderson’s support, the children raised an incredible £1,434.29 — a powerful example of compassion, teamwork and the Farleigh spirit in action.

Reconnect Through Music at Farleigh Live and our Farleigh Connected Music Club

If this brings back memories of Farleigh performances and friendships, now is the perfect time to reconnect. You can join the Farleigh Connected Music Club and explore upcoming events on Farleigh Connected - including Farleigh Live on 6th June, where several our best school bands, Five Foot Six and Vinyl Tap and alumni musicians will be taking to the stage:

Patience Please featuring Ollie Palmer (2013)

Tall Lady — Jamie Harvie‑Watt, Felix Henderson & Angus Regan (2015) and Tom Harvie‑Watt (2016)

Fergus Burtt (2016)

Lucas Gardner (2017)

Jasmine Pearson (2021)

It’s a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the next generation of Farleigh performers while reconnecting with the music, people and moments that shaped your own time here.