What a spectacular evening! Congratulations to Esme and Mabel, who had the fantastic opportunity to take part in the Johns’ Boys 10th Anniversary celebration at William Aston Hall last weekend (Sunday 3rd and Monday 4th October). The girls helped launch the Johns’ Boys and Girls Juniors an exciting new expansion of the award-winning Johns’ Boys choral organisation aimed at showcasing local young choral talent and celebrating a ten-year journey that has included reaching the finals of The X Factor and the semi-finals of Britain’s Got Talent.
The acclaimed choir, famed for their national television success, performed alongside a live orchestra of professional musicians under the magnificent creative and artistic curation of Aled Phillips, producing a truly unforgettable sound and world-class production.
Esme and Mabel worked tirelessly, attending rehearsals throughout the summer to prepare for this amazing opportunity. Their dedication took them to rehearse in historic venues like The Stiwt—a hall steeped in local heritage – before taking to the big stage. During the sell-out concert at William Aston Hall, both girls sang solo parts, performing an original, newly arranged Pop Medley alongside the iconic Welsh classic Yma o Hyd.
Mabel’s mum shared her pride following the performance:
“What an incredible honour to be alongside one of the best male voice choirs in the globe. The girls worked tirelessly and both sang solo parts in front of a sold-out audience at William Aston Hall. It was also a real privilege to rehearse in The Stiwt, which is steeped in local history. They sang an original and newly arranged pop medley and the classic Yma o Hyd. They now go on to record more material for release later in the year.”
Artistic Director Aled Phillips was equally full of praise for the girls’ stellar contribution:
“It was an absolute pleasure having Mabel and Esme with us. They were fantastic and fantastic ambassadors for Moreton. It was so special to see our new Johns’ Boys & Girls Juniors sharing the stage with a live orchestra and some of our Johns’ Boys lads.”
The evening was a true tour de force of music-making at its absolute best. In Monday morning’s assembly, Mr Reynolds, Head of English, spoke to the school about “AI” – redefining it not as Artificial Intelligence, but as Artistic Integrity. Last weekend perfectly exemplified this philosophy; when pupils fully embrace new challenges, they not only achieve remarkable artistic milestones, but also enjoy the magical journey along the way. It showcased how these wholesome opportunities offered at Moreton Hall create genuine, lasting memories and nurture true craftsmanship.
Looking Ahead to Next Week
The musical excitement doesn’t end there! We are thrilled to announce that Aled Phillips himself will be visiting Moreton next week as our guest conductor for the IAPS (Independent Association of Prep Schools) Festival of Singing. Having such an esteemed creative director lead our young singers will be an incredible experience for the pupils.
It was an extraordinary chance for our girls to perform on such a prestigious occasion and experience high-calibre live music firsthand. A brilliant milestone for Esme and Mabel, and an evening they will remember for a long time to come. We look forward to hearing their upcoming recordings later this year!
