We are delighted to announce that the BGS lockdown performance of Lean on Me by Bill Withers, was recognised and featured in the Royal Philharmonic Society (RPS) online award presentations, as part of their new Inspiration Award category – created specifically to celebrate musical initiatives during the first lockdown.

There were 2,761 public nominations and we are absolutely thrilled that the BGS virtual community lockdown project was one of 19 to receive a Commendation. Details of Commendations here.

Mr Atkins (Music Teacher), who organised the arrangement reflected: “On behalf of the Music Department and the hundreds (yes, literally hundreds!) of students, staff, parents and alumnae who contributed to our virtual community performance of Lean On Me, I am hugely honoured that our efforts have been recognised by one of the oldest and most respected music societies in the land.

“The project was a tremendous amount of work to pull together for all involved, and we as a whole community should be very proud to have that diligence acknowledged at such a prestigious level. Interestingly, nearly 200 years ago a large-scale and groundbreaking piece combining hundreds of voices and instruments was commissioned by the newly-formed Royal Philharmonic Society: Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony. During these unpredictable times, it is encouraging to see the RPS continuing to push the boundaries and celebrate innovative means of musical expression and performance with the introduction of this new Inspiration Award.”

Eloise Toone (Upper Sixth, Arts Captain), thoroughly enjoyed being part of the experience, she said: “It was amazing to be able to take part in this project, which involved so many members of the BGS community. It was a really enjoyable process recording all my different parts and eventually seeing all the individual videos put together. Especially for ensembles such as Bel Canto, who had not performed together for a long time. Hearing all our voices combined (albeit in a digital form) really made me feel connected with the other students despite being apart from one another.

“Being recognised by the RPS out of over 2,500 other submissions is such an honour, and I feel so lucky to have been able to take part. Thank you to all the music teachers who put so much time and effort into making this incredible project happen!”

We hope you enjoy this phenomenal performance by BGS students, staff and alumnae, view it again here.

Arranged by Mr Atkins (Music Teacher), Mr Keating-Roberts (Director of Music) and Mrs McKinnell (Music Teacher). Video editing by Mr Atkins.