On Thursday, 26 March, weeks of preparation and collaborative work came together in a world premiere performance of ‘Songs of the River’ held at St Mary’s Church, Hay-on-Wye.

The enthusiastic Year 5 class initially worked with local poet, Francesca Kay, to compose four poems based on the journey of rivers, taking inspiration from the majestic River Wye.

In groups, they then worked with celebrated composer, Robert Peate, to create pieces of music to accompany and enhance the lyrics.

Latterly they were joined by the pianist Jelena Makarova who accompanied the pupils and renowned soprano Jessica Summers, to rehearse the songs.

The experience of working with such talented professionals was a remarkable and memorable one for the pupils, with the concert in St Mary’s Church on Thursday evening being the pinnacle of the project.

Hay-on-Wye School said they are immensely grateful to Professor Mick Peak, who facilitated the project and has historically offered superb musical workshops and experiences to all Hay school pupils. Mick leads ‘Hay Music’, which was able to offer a free concert to parents and Hay residents with generous support of ‘The Darkley Trust’ and ‘The Simon Gibson Trust’.

The performance began with four solos sung by Jessica Summers, accompanied by Jelena Makarova, with Year 5 pupils joining to perform ‘River’s Journey’, ‘Flood’, ‘Tell us, River’ and ‘I Dream’. Luca and Spiro also accompanied on violin with various pupils playing percussion instruments.

Head teacher, Mr. Richard Morris, praised all pupils who participated and thanked Hay Music for facilitating this unique experience for the pupils, along with class teacher and deputy head, Mr. James Griffiths, for coordinating rehearsals and the evening’s performance.