On Tuesday, the Senior Strings performed at the Clothworkers’ Hall, London to Guild members during their Christmas dinner. As you may be aware, the School was founded by William Lambe the master of the Clothworkers’ Guild in the late 16th century, and the school was governed by them until they handed it over to the United Westminster Foundation in the early 20th century.

As the School continues to build closer links with it’s founders, the performance by The Senior Strings was a perfect chance. We started with Bach’s Aria from the 3rd Orchestral Suite which the School heard in the assembly the week before. Christine M (Lower Sixth) then joined us to sing Handel’s Lascia ch’io pianga (Let me weep). Finally, the Strings performed the complete Vivaldi’s Concerto in E minor. Below is sections from the email received by the Headmaster from the Guild:

“I wished to write to you without delay to say what an utterly wonderful treat we enjoyed last night from your Senior Strings and soloist, Christine. The Bach, Handel and Vivaldi were all fabulous, and the singing especially moving. Please do congratulate all those who were involved”

The Master of the Guild added “Just to add my thanks to your staff and students at Sutton Valence School for a brilliant contribution to our Court and livery dinner last night. The singer Christine was outstanding…and last night your students were a credit to the School.”

Mr Horley’s thanks go to:
Sophie B (Leader), Mark E, Haydn F, Jana K, Christine M, Joshua R (all Lower Sixth), Grace B, Amalie O and James P (all Upper Sixth). Also to Mr Holmes (Head of Strings) , Mr Bowles and Lara Bowles (OS)

In the picture below, in the centre, you can see a painting of William Lambe. Above his shoulder in the small window is a picture of Sutton Valence village with the School Almshouses in the fore. A copy of the picture is displayed outside the Library.