On Thursday 7th February 2008, the RGS hosted a Celebrity Recital featuring Sir Willard White, the internationally renowned opera singer. Sir Willard was accompanied with great style by Neal Thornton on piano, and RGS’s very own music-teaching Richard Bolton on variously, cello, acoustic and electric guitar. Full review at the bottom of the page.

Pictures courtesy of David Stone and Christopher Duncalf.

The stage is set, the audience is ready ... 

Sir Willard White in full voice

Sir Willard White and Richard Bolton 

Our own Mr Bolton on the cello

Sir Willard White 

Sir Willard White Concert

The end of a wonderful evening, and some much deserved applause

The "Paul Robeson Legacy Concert" boasted many favourites including Ol’ Man River, Didn’t My Lord Deliver Daniel, and Down By the Riverside. Sir Willard’s enormous, rich voice and powerful stage presence delighted a capacity audience with each and every number – there were 19 in all, plus the encore! In between songs, Neal Thornton told us of the unusual and challenging life Paul Robeson had led.

"I didn't really know what to expect, but I have been completely overwhelmed by such an outstanding performance," said a member of the audience.

The recital was organised by the RGS Friends of Music as part of an ongoing series to bring professional musicians to the school for the boys to experience top class performers.  In addition to ticket carrying attendees, several pupils, including the sixth form prefects and head boy Ali Americanos supported the concert as ushers welcoming guests to the school. The sound and lighting team - mostly pupils - also did a sterling job on the night. After the recital, not to be outdone, the RGS Close Harmony Group “Singers Limited”, gave Sir Willard an impromptu and rousing rendition of ‘Dem Bones, followed by a photo opportunity with the great man.

The RGS Celebrity Recitals are planned and managed by the RGS Friends of Music in order to support musical activities within the school, with the twin aims of enriching the cultural life of the school as well as raising funds to support RGS music.

The concert was a sell-out with a full house in the Queen's Hall of 500, and a waiting list for return tickets (all of which were sold!).

“This was one of our biggest concerts ever,” said Steph Russell, RGS Resources Manager. “This really was RGS at its very best and I was so proud. Everyone played their part to make the evening the tremendous success that it was.”

Other comments from the audience included:

"I have had one of the best evenings ever. Seeing and hearing Sir Willard in what is a relatively small and yet more intimate venue is even better than when I heard him a few years ago at Covent Garden."

"I have always liked singing, but now hearing Sir Willard White I realise how great singing can be."

 "This has been a great concert and this is a wonderful school giving these young men such an opportunity."