Musicians on song at show

IN fine voice . . . the junior choir

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AN amazing musical marathon got under way when more than 850 performers took to the stage for Oldham's Summer Festival.

Whether it was brass, rock, pop, choral or otherwise, there was something for everyone at Oldham Music Centre's fifth annual event on Sunday.

Just over 50 groups performed at Newman RC College in Chadderton, as well as four ensembles and two pre-school music classes.

Director of music and head of Oldham Music Service Gerard Booth said: "Once again the sun shone on the Oldham Music Centre's Summer Festival and helped to create a truly wonderful party atmosphere as supporters turned up to celebrate the breadth and talent of Oldham's musicians, young and old.

Variety

"Our four previous festivals were all spectacular successes so it was an easy decision for us to return to Newman College again this year.

"A swing band kicked us off with the first performance at 10am, followed by our musical theatre showcase. It was pretty much non-stop music all day.

"We had everything from rock and pop to more traditional orchestras, choirs and bands, and all at different levels.

"We are very proud of the enormous diversity of styles and talent that was on display."

There were around 2,000 visitors to the college's three venues, the central forum, theatre space and mini rock and pop festival in the canteen.

Elementary wind and brass groups took to the stage in the performance hall while Newman RC College's school choir and senior choir kept visitors entertained in the central forum.

Oldham Youth Choir's Les Miserables set at 1pm was described by residents as "sensational."

Ukulele and wind ensembles, saxophones, double reeds and horns also featured in the day-long event.

And if the variety of music was not enough, the school's indoor rock climbing wall was also in operation.

Food stalls, an ice-cream van, a tuck shop, craft fair, and music exchange stall were added to the mix.

Head teacher at Newman RC College Mike McGhee said: "It was a great privilege for Newman College to be associated with this event for the fifth successive year and to make available our fabulous facilities. Yet again, the Oldham Music Service and the Families and Friends association deserve a great deal of credit for planning this year's festival."

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