The rafters of the historic Rutherglen Town Hall rang out with the sounds of brass and rhythm this week as the South Lanarkshire School Big Band made its highly anticipated return for their annual headline concert. Delivering a programme of jazz, swing, and soul, the ensemble proved once again why this event has become a definitive highlight of the Instrumental Music Service (IMS) calendar.
The programme featured a difficult selection of repertoire, from swing standards to soul classics, executed with a level of musicianship and flair that belied the performers’ ages. Singers Laurel and Lucy brought the house down and the range and quality of soloists from this young band was simply outstanding. The calibre of the performance seems to reach new heights every year.
The Big band were delighted to invite pupils from Newton Farm Primary School onto the stage for a special joint performance. The collaboration is essential for the IMS and highlights the “full circle” nature of music education in South Lanarkshire, allowing the primary pupils to perform alongside their older peers.
