Winter News
Stoller Hall Concerts
The Big Recorder Project
Youth Voices
Rhyme and Chime
Battle of the Bands
Whole Class Projects
Stoller Hall Winter Concerts
99 pieces played throughout the day by 657 students
Debut performances for Youth Voices and Rock Academy 1B
36 different groups performed
1308 seats taken throughout the day
With special thanks to our VIP guests for attending:
Sara Todd, Owain Sutton, Karina Carter, Dr Shengke Zhi, Mr & Mrs Gupta, and Judith Lloyd
St. Teresa's Primary School to Represent Trafford in the Big Recorder Project
St. Teresa’s Primary School is proudly preparing to represent Trafford in the Big Recorder Project at The Stoller Hall, Manchester, in May 2025. Led by renowned educator Paul Harris, this project has Year 4 students learning to play the recorder through Tudor songs such as Hail and Hearty, Hark!, and Henry VIII Prepares a Feast.
When asked about their experience, students shared their excitement:
“The recorder project is really fun, and I’m excited to perform with all the other children at The Stoller Hall next year!”
“I thought I’d only learn three notes, but I’m amazed by how much I can play. Practicing every week has helped me learn so much more than I expected. I’ve performed at school, but I think I’ll feel amazing after the concert!”
Miss Georgie Stone, their class teacher, added:
“The children have been so enthusiastic about their weekly lessons. This project connects beautifully with other subjects, like Maths, Languages, Art (through drawing notation), and History, as they link Tudor facts to the music they’re learning. It’s been wonderful to see their confidence grow—from hesitant beginners to students eager to practice at home and perform on a big stage like The Stoller Hall.”
In May, the students will join acclaimed musicians and peers from across the North West in a concert celebrating their hard work, new skills, and love for music.
Rhyme and Chime
Music classes for 0-4 year olds
Launched in September, Rhyme & Chime offers engaging weekly music classes for children aged 0–4 and their parents/carers. Led by Jenny Davies, our Lead Early Years Music Tutor, each session explores a nursery rhyme through singing, movement, instrument play, storytelling, and signed songs using ‘Signalong.’ A dedicated “musical playtime” allows young musicians to follow their own interests and explore a variety of instruments.
The sessions have been a resounding success, welcoming new faces each week while building connections with returning families. It’s an exciting opportunity to nurture the beginning of these children’s musical journeys. At Trafford Music Service, we believe early music education supports growth in key areas such as brain development, mathematics, language, social skills, and creative expression.
Rhyme & Chime sessions run on Wednesdays from 10:30–11:15 am during term time at The Claremont Centre. You can book and pay online via Eventbrite, or simply drop in. Free parking is available on-site.
Youth Voices
We are delighted to share that our brand-new Youth Voices choir made their debut performance at the Stoller Hall on December 1st. Their performance was a highlight of the evening, demonstrating the potential of this talented group of young singers.
Following their inspiring debut, Youth Voices will now join our most senior concerts, performing alongside the Philharmonic Orchestra—a significant opportunity to showcase their skills. We will also be extending their session time from 1 hour to 1 hour 20 minutes, so that they can take on some more challenging repertoire.
Looking ahead, the choir is preparing for an exciting performance of Wind in the Willows at the prestigious Bridgewater Hall in Manchester, promising another milestone in their musical journey.
The Benefits of Singing for Teenagers
Singing in a choir offers teenagers more than musical development. It reduces stress, builds confidence, and fosters teamwork, all while creating a sense of community. Activities like these provide a positive outlet for creativity and personal growth during such formative years.
We’re proud to support the development of our young singers and look forward to their continued success.
Joining Youth Voices is free of charge, sessions take place Monday evenings 5:00 - 6:20pm. Register here.
