The Albert Hall in Nottingham was filled with joy as 600 children and staff from 27 local primary schools performed in the Transform Trust Choir's third annual concert. The young singers, representing schools across Nottingham City, Nottinghamshire, and Derbyshire, sang and signed their way through a musical journey around the world.
Community Collaboration
The event was founded by Tanya White and Lindsay Clark, with support from Inspire Music, who provided a live band. Training for school staff choir leads was delivered by Nottingham and Nottinghamshire Music Hub and Derbyshire Music Hub. Funding came from Zen Educate and a subsidy from the Arts Council.
Tanya White explained: "I believe that music is food for the soul. It is an inclusive, creative and thoroughly enjoyable aspect of school life. Our trust-wide choir creates endless opportunities for our children to experience connectivity outside of their own school and community."
Inclusive Learning
The choir learned signing and other languages, including a Japanese song called "Sakura." Staff training workshops were provided by the Music Hubs, and resources were uploaded to SharePoint for independent practice.
Kelly Lee, Transform Trust's chief school improvement officer, said: "Today has been a truly joyous and memorable occasion. Seeing their faces as they entered this magical space was very special. They met other children outside of their school with a mutual love of singing."
Pupil Reactions
Children shared their experiences: Charlotte, Year 5, said: "Singing makes me feel happy and powerful." Alex, Year 2, likes "being part of a choir because the songs are good, and it makes me feel calm." Gregory, Year 2, loved learning the Japanese song. Jasmin, Year 5, encouraged others: "I was a little nervous at first, but that soon disappeared - everyone is friendly."
Future Impact
Rebecca Meredith, CEO of Transform Trust, said: "I truly think I have the best job in the world. Looking at our children as they sing their hearts out fills me with so much joy and hope. We want to thank the generosity of the Music Hubs, Arts Council, and Zen Educate." The finale, a Roar/Brave compilation, brought the house down.
