Ahead of A-level results day and Clearing, University for the Creative Arts (UCA) has written an open letter to parents and carers asking them not to discourage their children from making the creative choice and ultimately pursuing their dreams this week.

UCA writes on behalf of the children that came before, those that didn’t choose games over geography, marketing over medicine or animation over accounting due to pressure from their parents and carers, of which there are many examples posted on the online community, The Student Room. “I’m honestly just doing linguistics for my parents. They expect me to get a ‘good’ degree, to get a secure job – they think working in the film industry won’t get me anywhere.”

The University, which for nearly 170 years has delivered creative education, acknowledges it’s only natural for parents and carers to feel uncertain when children say they want to pursue a creative subject. “We understand the hopes and concerns that come with guiding children’s higher education and subject choice. Parents and carers want the best for them – a secure future,” says UCA’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Melanie Gray.

This is reinforced in UCAS’ Project Next Generation report, which states parents want to guide their children towards the pathways that have the best capacity for earning and stability. As a result, almost half (48%) of children in the report, agreed that they feel pressure from parents to make ‘good’ decisions about their education. 

UCA reassures in the letter that ‘a creative choice is a career choice,’ with the creative industries worth £124 billion a year to the UK economy and support more than 2.4 million jobs. Long-term, the sector is also part of the Government’s modern Industrial Strategy – a 10-year plan backing the UK’s strengths with ambitions for eight high-growth sectors, aiming to increase productivity and create jobs.    

Professor Gray, adds: “With this letter we’re not reprimanding parents and carers, we’re simply asking them to support their children and have confidence in them choosing what they love. We have seen time and time again, children not pursuing their creative dreams, which now more than ever, have a secure future.”

UCAS’ report acknowledgesparents and carers play a pivotal role in the crucial choices children make about their future. It also shows children’s higher education choices are inspired by their passions. Support and reassurance, not pressure, is needed to empower children in their decision making.

Support ahead of A-level results day and Clearing is available on UCA’s dedicated webpage, uca.ac.uk/clearing for parents and carers, as well as those wanting to make the creative choice. On Friday 15 and Saturday 16 August, the University also welcomes anyone to tour its campuses and ask staff and current students questions. For those not yet applied through Clearing, Staff will also make on-the-spot offers to those suitable.

Image: Student work by UCA BA Graphic Ryon Pattison

On Sunday 10 August, under a radiant summer sky, the Epsom & Ewell Silver Band gave a free open-air concert in Rosebery Park. Families and friends gathered, bringing their own chairs or settling under marquees, enjoying ice creams, picnics, and the gentle warmth of the day. The relaxed, communal atmosphere felt quintessentially British—just the sort of setting the band seems to relish.

EESB competes in the First Section of the London & Southern Counties region, and is active within the Southern Counties Amateur Band Association (eesb.org.uk). Founded around 1910 as Banstead Silver Band, it has a rich heritage, including early rehearsal stories in barns and a legendary centenarian player, Tom Fiddimore, who helped sustain the band through decades. In July 2023, the experienced tenor-horn player and conductor Tariq Ahmed was appointed Musical Director. Originally from Lancashire, Tariq has an impressive background with championship bands and contest successes, including experience on BBC Radio 2, European tours, and national finals.

EESB’s presentation was a masterclass in subtle harmonies and gorgeous arrangements. The ensemble gently wove together familiar melodies with rich brass textures.

The first half opened with San Lorenzo, a lyrical piece whose fluid lines invoked a serene Italian sunrise. Swingtime Religion brought a sprightly, jazz-tinged rhythm to the park. The Wichita Lineman was delivered with poignant phrasing, capturing the emotional core of Jimmy Webb’s classic. In Concerto de Aranjuez, the Adagio’s romantic guitar theme, eloquently rendered by brass, floated beautifully amid the greenery. The Spirit Within, a more modern piece imbued with introspection and warmth. Bui Doi carried a haunting quality, resonating with depth, while St Louis Blues March blended bluesy soul with marching energy. Let’s Face the Music and Dance, the Irving Berlin standard, swung with effortless charm to close the half.

The second half began with Florentiner March, bright and ceremonial, restoring lively momentum. Ae Fond Kiss, Robert Burns’ tender farewell, was exquisitely phrased. Salute to Sinatra offered a glitzy, nostalgic trip back to the Rat Pack era. With One Look from the musical Sunset Boulevard was dramatic and expressive, the brass almost singing the lyrics. Pinball Wizard brought energy and edge, while Song of the Night Sky was dreamy and atmospheric, ideal for a summer evening. Pastime with Good Company nodded to Elizabethan merriment, and the finale, You Can’t Stop the Beat, soared energetically to bring the concert to a rousing close.

This concert showcased the band’s mastery of nuance, from classical depth to modern zest, with arrangements that highlighted every section in balanced harmony. On a sunny August afternoon, amid picnics and cheerful chatter, the Epsom & Ewell Silver Band underlined its role not just as a brass ensemble, but as a focal point of community culture and joyful musical experience.

Thanks to Cllr Steven McCormick (RA Surrey and Woodcote and Langley) for arranging and the photo.

The University for the Creative Arts (UCA), in collaboration with the Higher Education Outreach Network (HEON), is offering six exciting and inspiring Taster Days for current Year 10 students. These free events will focus on a range of creative disciplines including Fine Art, Graphic Design, Animation, Acting, Textiles, and Creative Business.

Taking place across UCA’s campuses, each Taster Day is designed to give students a hands-on introduction to life at a specialist creative university. Participants will have the opportunity to work closely with practising artists, experienced academics, and current UCA students. Through engaging workshops and interactive sessions, students will gain valuable insight into what it’s like to study and work in the creative industries.

These experiences allow students to explore the university’s professional facilities, including industry-standard studios, workshops, and software. Whether it’s using digital design tools, experimenting with materials, performing in rehearsal spaces, or developing their own summer music festival, these Taster Days are designed to develop creative confidence and key skills that can support students as they enter Year 11 and begin to think seriously about their future pathways.

UCA partners with HEON, a network of universities and colleges working together as part of the Office for Students’ Uni Connect programme. HEON’s mission is to raise awareness of higher education and help young people from North Hampshire and Surrey to make informed, confident choices about their next steps. By offering engaging and supportive activities, HEON aims to open doors to higher education for students who may not have previously considered it.

The Taster Days form part of this wider commitment to student outreach and aspiration-raising. They provide a first-hand experience of what it means to study creative subjects at a higher level, while also showcasing the range of career paths available in the creative industries, from visual arts and media to performance and entrepreneurship.

These Taster Days are not just about creativity – for many, it’s the first time they’ve stepped onto a university campus or imagined themselves pursuing a career in the arts. We encourage all eligible Year 10 students to consider attending one of these fantastic opportunities.

24^th July, 10:00-14:30 – UCA Farnham – Fine Art, Graphic Design, Animation, Acting

25^th July, 10:00-14:30 – UCA Epsom – Textiles and Creative Business

Successful applicants will also be entered into a prize draw to win an artist’s pack!

If you are a student, parent, or teacher interested in learning more, please don’t hesitate to get in touch at outreach@uca.ac.uk.

Art & Design student from Nescot College, Imaani Zafar, has been selected to exhibit her work at Origins Creatives, taking place at the Mall Galleries in July.

Imaani’s submission, titled, ‘Mother Nature: The Voice of Amazigh Women Through Textile’, explores the idea of civilisation and caught the attention of UAL (University of the Arts London) Awarding Body’s curator, Calum Hall, amongst over 600 submissions.

Speaking about her work, Imaani, who has completed the first year of her UAL Level Three Extended Diploma said, “I made this installation to educate people about the Amazigh women. Their knowledge and practices are often overlooked, and I wanted to create something to honour their existence.”

Sarah Morgan, Art and Digital Design lecturer at Nescot commented, “We are all so proud of Imaani. Her creation demonstrates her artistic voice with meaning and sentiment. We are thrilled that her work has been selected by UAL Awarding Body for Origins Creatives at the prestigious Mall Galleries. It is a fantastic opportunity for Imaani to showcase her work at this annual celebration of student achievement, connect with peers, industry experts and the public.”

Origins Creatives is a free exhibition presented by UAL Awarding Body, offering an exciting opportunity for art enthusiasts, critics, and industry professionals in the creative sector to discover fresh, original talent. This event celebrates the dedication and hard work of young creatives from across the UK and internationally. Origins Creatives provides a platform for emerging talent to be seen and celebrated, connecting them with potential collaborators, industry leaders, and a wider audience.

The exhibition features outstanding work from students based across the UAL centres showcasing their talent across the UAL subject areas of Art and Design, Fashion Business and Retail, Creative Media, Music Performance and Production, Performing Arts, Entry Level 3 in Art and Design and Performing Arts, Professional Diplomas, and the Extended Project Qualification.

This year’s edition of Origins Creatives will take place in person at the Mall Galleries in central London. The exhibition kicks off with an invite-only opening night on Tuesday 15 July. It will be open to the public from 16 – 19 July, alongside an online showcase.

The exhibition will showcase selected work created by students from Entry Level and Levels 1, 2, 3 and 4 across all subject areas. You can expect to see a diverse range of painting, photography, drawing, sculpture, fashion and more.

Exhibition opening times for the public:

• Wednesday 16 July, 10am – 6pm
• Thursday 17 July, 1pm – 6pm
• Friday 18 July, 10am – 6pm
• Saturday 19 July, 10am – 5pm

Address: Mall Galleries, The Mall, St. James’s, London SW1Y 5AS

If you are interested in attending this event, please book your ticket at: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/origins-creatives-2025-tickets-1345097014379?aff=oddtdtcreator

In addition to the range of Art and Digital Design UAL Awarding Body courses, Nescot offers a wide range of college courses for school leavers and adults, including Animal Care, Business, Computing and IT, Construction, Performing Arts, Childcare, Health & Social Care and Beauty Therapy. To find out more about studying at Nescot call 020 8394 3038, visit www.nescot.ac.uk or email adviceteam@nescot.ac.uk 

Nescot student Imaani Zafar’s art installation_Origins Creatives 2025_2

On Saturday 28th June, the Epsom Chamber Choir presented an eclectic programme of music inspired by Shakespeare’s songs and sonnets. Ranging from small-scale madrigals to the beautiful melodies of Bernstein’s West Side Story, relaxed jazz from George Shearing, and an uplifting setting of Whitacre’s Leonardo Dreams of His Flying Machine, with everything in between, there truly was music for everyone.

Encouraged by the generous acoustics of St Martin’s Church, Epsom, the choir was in good voice despite the heat of the evening. The programme structure combined more contemporary music interspersed with madrigals (sung mainly two to a part), giving most of the choir an opportunity to shine. While some of the small groups were more successful in mastering the “art” of the madrigal—especially in the performance of Fair Phyllis—this music nevertheless offered both vocal and musical contrast.

The West Side Story medley (along with the arrangement of Summertime) provided a joyous start to the concert, with excellent choir diction and lovely solo singing. The four Shakespeare songs by the Finnish composer Jaakko Mäntyjärvi (born 1963) were more challenging for both the audience and the choir. Requiring an exceptionally high standard of performance, the choir, as always, was assured, although tuning and balance suffered a little at times.

In contrast, the performance of Whitacre’s Leonardo Dreams of His Flying Machine was masterful—sung with conviction, passion, and finesse. Bravo, Epsom Chamber Choir!

The second half had a lighter feel, with some meaningful arrangements, including Billy Joel’s And So It Goes (arranged by Bob Chilcott), all of which were sung beautifully. The concert concluded with the five Songs and Sonnets from Shakespeare by George Shearing, which gave the choir a chance to “let their hair down.” Clearly, they enjoyed these pieces, as did the audience, supported by excellent piano accompaniment from Stephen Ridge.

For this concert, Tristan Weymes replaced ECC’s principal conductor, Jack Apperley, and his calm and sensitive approach was appreciated by all.

Congratulations to the Epsom Chamber Choir for a joyous summer evening of Shakespeare-inspired music.
So, “if music be the food of love, sing on!”

—Michael Stevenson MA FTCL GTCL ARCO

Photo credit Paul McCan

Runnymede Borough Council has agreed to release thousands of pounds to help buy a “significantly important” oil painting for its museum. The painting is an oil on canvas portrait of Britain’s first foreign secretary and one-time leader of the Whig Party, Charles James Fox MP.

Mr Fox, who spent his final years in St Ann’s Hill, Chertsey, was a strong supporter of parliamentary reform and advocated for religious tolerance and individual liberty. He was a particularly vocal campaigner for the abolition of slavery and introduced what was to become the 1807 Abolition of the Slave Trade Act which made it illegal for British ships and British subjects to trade in enslaved people.

The portrait has been offered to the museum for £5,000 and half of the money for its purchase will come from donations, with the rest from the council’s museum after Runnymede Borough Council’s corporate management committee signed off the move.

Emma Warren, curator of Chertsey Museum, told the Thursday June 19 meeting: “We’ve been given the opportunity to purchase an original oil painting, quite a large item, of one of the borough’s, if not the country’s, unsung heroes.” She said the money would come from the museum’s own fund which had been “built up over many many years and can only be used for the benefit of the museum’s collections.”

“In my time at Chertsey Museum, which is 23 years, we’ve only used the purchase fund four times which is why it’s healthy. It’s normally kept for items of significant importance which I believe this painting to be, given we only have a couple of portraits of Fox and no original artworks. I could talk literally for hours about him. He is important not just to Chertsey where he spent his final years living on St Anne’s Hill. Normally I mention his debauched young life with the women and gambling but I was told to skip over that and concentrate on the important bit as to why he was our unsung hero.”

Reports presented to the meeting said Mr Fox, who was known as the Man of the People, first came to Chertsey in 1783 when Elizabeth Armistead, who would become his wife, invited him to join her at her home in St Ann’s Hill. The museum’s collection features letters from Mr Fox and gives an insight into his life on the hill. He was said to have taken up sheep rearing and learned about planting requirements for crops.

Mrs Warren added: “He was a Whig politician, had an unwavering support for liberty and parliamentary reforms and anti-slavery principles. Many of his views were quite ahead of his time. He spoke out at length against anti-government overreach.”

The image produced here is NOT the one the subject of this report.

Image: Joshua Reynolds portrait of Charles James Fox- pl.pinterest.com, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=48763729 This is not likely to be the portrait that is the subject of this article. We have been waiting for details from the museum.

Organised by Cllr Dr Graham Jones MBE (Lieutenant Colonel (retired) (RA Cuddington) the renowned Royal Marines Band Collingwood made a triumphant performance at the Epsom Playhouse on Friday night, delivering a rousing programme brimming with technical excellence, military precision, and heartfelt artistry. Conducted by Captain Phil Trudgeon and Warrant Officer 2 Bandmaster Jamie Gunn, the band captivated a near-capacity audience with a thrilling showcase of traditional military repertoire and popular favourites.

The evening began, fittingly, with the National Anthem performed with stately dignity, reflecting the band’s deep roots in national and royal service.

The opening item, Overture to Candide by Leonard Bernstein, displayed infectious energy and fizzing orchestration, setting a vibrant tone. Bernstein’s much-loved operetta is famed for its satirical bite, and the Marines captured its brilliance and wit with panache.

Next came John Philip Sousa’s Who’s Who in Navy Blue, a 1920 march celebrating American naval traditions, crisply articulated by the brass and percussion with authentic verve.

In a change of mood, the band shifted to the familiar strains of the Top Gun Theme, arranged by Laughton. Its soaring harmonies and stirring sense of adventure delighted the audience, showcasing the band’s ability to cross genres effortlessly.

The Drum Static interlude then brought the spotlight to the Corps of Drums. Their razor-sharp discipline, complex sticking patterns and synchronised movement brought rapturous applause.

Cape Helles by Young followed, a poignant musical tribute to the Gallipoli landings of 1915, performed with great sensitivity and power.

Alford’s lively The Mad Major quick march injected a welcome spark of lightness, its playful melody and military swagger a reminder of Alford’s enduring legacy as the “British March King.”

A show-stopping highlight came with Corporal Savage’s clarinet solo in Artie Shaw’s Clarinet Concerto, arranged by Cray. This 1940 swing-inspired concerto, with its swooping glissandi and jazz idioms, was delivered with aplomb and won a spontaneous ovation.

The first half concluded with two contrasting works. In Ireland by Lance Corporal Brooks explored traditional folk-tinged melodies with a fresh, lyrical approach. Finally, Frank Ticheli’s Vesuvius erupted with rhythmic fire and dramatic textures, a thrilling depiction of the famous volcano’s destructive power.

The second half began with Maiden Legacy, an arrangement by Captain Trudgeon, demonstrating the band’s ability to reinterpret newer repertoire with flair.

A stylish rendition of Skyfall, the James Bond theme popularised by Adele with band soloist Beth McGregor, delivered a rich, cinematic grandeur which clearly resonated with the audience.

For the finale, the band turned to a cornerstone of English wind music: Gustav Holst’s A Moorside Suite, originally written for brass band.

• The Scherzo sparkled with rhythmic energy,
• The Nocturne brought a serene, pastoral calm,
• And the concluding March was robust and dignified, the perfect platform for the band’s tonal power and ensemble unity.

Shenandoah, arranged by Frank Ticheli, offered a moving moment of reflection. This classic American folk tune, thought to date back to early 19th-century river boatmen, was performed with deep feeling and a sonorous blend. Played in memory of a young member of the band recently lost to motor neurone disease.

As dusk approached, the band performed the traditional Sunset, arranged by Green, a moment of quiet remembrance often associated with evening ceremonies in the Royal Navy.

The concert then closed with two of the Royal Marines’ most cherished musical emblems: Heart of Oak, the official march of the Royal Navy since the 18th century, and A Life on the Ocean Wave, the Royal Marines’ regimental march, based on Henry Russell’s 19th-century song. These stirring finales underlined the band’s powerful heritage and left the audience in no doubt of their world-class standing.

However, the audience would not let them go without an encore and with Eric Coates’ great Dambusters March all left satisfied.

The Royal Marines Band Service has maintained its traditions since the 18th century, combining musical excellence with operational service. The Band Collingwood, based at HMS Collingwood, continues to support Royal Navy and national ceremonial events across the UK and internationally. Its members are trained both as musicians and as deployable service personnel, maintaining a dual role unmatched in the military music world.

The evening was also attended by members of the local branch of the Royal British Legion (RBL), who noted in the programme that concerts like these are an enduring link between the public and the Armed Forces, highlighting the shared remembrance and respect for those who have served.

This concert was a brilliant reminder of the pride, tradition, and sheer artistry of the Royal Marines Band Collingwood, whose excellence lifted the hearts of all who were privileged to hear them.

Well done to Dr Graham Jones for bringing such a memorable evening to Epsom.

Image courtesy Steven McCormick Photography

A Surrey film studio used by Netflix, the streaming giant behind hit shows such as Stranger Things, Bridgerton and Adolescence, will be made permanent after full planning permission was granted. The site was originally approved on a short-term basis because of its green belt location, and Runnymede Borough Council’s desire to see the area eventually become an office hub as part of its Longcross Garden Village plan. The cratering demand of office space, plus the growing rise of Netflix, saw the land be taken out of green belt – meaning the temporary restrictions no longer applied and its long-term future could be secured. Officers told the Wednesday June 25 meeting: “This building was erected in 2020 under a temporary permission and has been used continually since. Permission was granted originally for the building on a temporary basis for reasons of visual amenity and so as not to prejudice the ongoing phased redevelopment of the Longcross north site. Since then there has been a change in site circumstances in respect of the commercial redevelopment of the site. The building supports the existing studio use and therefore there are no reasons why the building can not remain on a permanent basis.”

The site was previously occupied by the Defence Evaluation and Research Agency (DERA) with many of its old buildings used by Netflix as film studios including buildings within the Surrey Heath. The Longcross North site together with the former DERA land south of the M3 including Longcross Barracks, form the designated Longcross Garden Village and has been removed from the green belt through the 2030 Local Plan. The building is near to the northern boundary within the wider Longcross North site. The officer added: “The appearance of the building is appropriate in the context of the wider film studios site.” The application was unanimously approved.

Longcross Studios (image Google)

Picturehouse Epsom is proud to announce a powerful new partnership with Blossom LGBT to launch OUT — a year-round celebration of LGBTQ+ cinema.

Together, we’re amplifying queer voices on screen and creating space for connection, reflection, and community — showing that Pride isn’t just a once-a-year event, but an ongoing conversation and opportunity to build lasting community.

About Blossom LGBT

Blossom LGBT is a national non-profit supporting LGBTQIA+ young adults aged 16–30. Based in Surrey, their mission is to ensure that no young person faces exclusion — social or economic — because of who they are or whom they love.

They work to break down systemic barriers of discrimination, poverty, and disadvantage, empowering the next generation to thrive.

At Blossom, we are dedicated to creating a world where LGBTQIA+ young adults can overcome discrimination, thrive in safe and supportive communities, and access the tools and opportunities needed to succeed with dignity and purpose. We are designed for the community, by the community.

It’s vital that young people see themselves reflected in film, not just to feel visible, but to know that their stories, identities, and futures matter. Representation can inspire confidence, spark ambition, and help young people imagine a world where they belong.

Our Venue: Epsom Picturehouse

Epsom Picturehouse is a brand-new six-screen cinema in the heart of Epsom Square. With a rich programme of arthouse and quality mainstream films, plus a stylish café and bar, it offers a perfect setting for inclusive, community-focused events.

We’re excited to open our doors to OUT and host a variety of screenings, discussions, and gatherings that celebrate the richness and diversity of LGBTQ+ lives and experiences.

Joe Stroud from Epsom Picturehouse said:

“I’m delighted that, at the heart of all this, we’re celebrating community. What better way to do that than by sharing powerful stories on screen and using them as inspiring conversation starters?”

What is OUT?

OUT is a long-running Picturehouse initiative that celebrates LGBTQ+ stories — from reclaimed classics to bold new voices. Now in its tenth year at Clapham Picturehouse, we’re thrilled to extend this initiative to Surrey, helping local audiences build connections and community through film.

Clapham’s OUT journey began in 2014 with a screening of Dallas Buyers Club, and has since included landmark titles such as Barry Jenkins’ Moonlight, the historic Best Picture winner at the 2017 Academy Awards. Now, it’s Epsom’s turn.

Upcoming Events: Brokeback Mountain + Q&A Panel — 6 July

Join Blossom LGBT for a special 20th anniversary screening of Brokeback Mountain, directed by Ang Lee and starring Heath Ledger and Jake Gyllenhaal — a landmark film for the LGBTQ+ community.

Following the screening, we’ll host an open and thoughtful Q&A with invited panellists, exploring the film’s emotional journey — touching on themes of love, repression, and resilience.

Together, we’ll reflect on how life for LGBTQ+ people has changed (and in some ways stayed the same), especially in rural communities. How do those experiences echo in today’s legal battles and cultural conversations?

The evening will feature invited guests, including Outline, an organisation supporting people with their sexuality and gender identity through a helpline, website, and support groups. Also attending are the Mary Frances Trust (MFT) LGBT Peer Support Group, as well as Walk and Talk 4 Men — a free support group for men to come together, walk, talk, and support their mental health while enjoying some fresh air.

This event is for anyone seeking connection — whether you’re exploring your own journey, supporting someone close to you, or simply curious to learn more. We invite you into a warm, inclusive space to listen, reflect, and be part of a growing community.

Mark your calendars for more upcoming events celebrating LGBTQ+ stories:

Sun 29 Jun

• reDiscover The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert (15) at 17:10

Mon 30 Jun

• Out Queer Futures (Cert TBC) at 20:30
• reDiscover The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert (15) at 19:45

Tue 01 Jul

• Discover — Preview Hot Milk (15) at 20:15

Wed 02 Jul

• Brokeback Mountain plus Q&A (15) at 18:30

Stay tuned for more film nights, conversations, and creative community events throughout the year. Whether you’re a long-time advocate or new to the conversation, there’s a seat here for you.

Let’s make Pride more than a moment — let’s make it a movement. See you at the cinema.

For more information about the organisers, visit blossom.lgbt or email Steph Elhaddad at Steph.Elhaddad@blossom.lgbt.

21st June, St Andrews, Northey Avenue: Fresh from their triumph at this year’s Leith Hill Music Festival, Epsom Choral Society presented an end-of-term programme consisting of three wonderful contemporary items on a theme of jazz and improvisation. Plus a fourth – which earned its place by virtue of being a world premiere! The whole evening worked like a giant crescendo, starting quietly and ending with Will Todd’s magnificent and sometimes wild Mass in Blue.

Jazz as a genre poses huge demands on a traditional choir. It’s no longer enough just to master the notes, the rhythms and the dynamics. The whole concept of flexible swing rhythms can feel positively alien to those steeped in classical music. Full marks, therefore, to ECS conductor Julian Collings, for helping the choir to overcome what is, in essence, a new language to give us an evening of singing that was convincing, exuberant and full of vitality.

Hats off also to the supporting cast: saxophonist Alex Flower, bassist Ben Summers, drummer Tom Lee and pianist Peter Jaekel. Ultimate accolade must go to soprano Lisa Swayne for her stratospheric ululations that took Mass in Blue to a different level.

Opening the concert was Ola Gjeilo’s (1978– ) Evening Prayer. Gjeilo’s reflective, not necessarily religious, compositions with sumptuous harmonies have made him a great favourite with choirs on both sides of the Atlantic. Composed in 2010, the powerful words of St Augustine were reverently and warmly sung, with all three protagonists – choir, pianist and saxophonist – creating an atmosphere of contemplation within a framework of gentle and optional improvisation.

And thus, having been transported heavenwards, we were brought down to earth with a bump!

This fun little ditty True Story (words by Michael Rosen) was one of a song-set of ten by Russell Hepplewhite, who conceived of inviting ten living poets to document his/her personal response to the current world, and setting these to music. It’s not clear whether the full set is ever intended to be performed all together, since they are being individually premiered this year by choirs from around the country.

The song chosen for ECS is set very simply for choir and piano – which makes it accessible for many choirs. Excellent diction was vital to the storytelling; along with a spirited enjoyment of the text – where one man’s ecstasy at the birth of his son is mirrored against another man’s wonderment at the hatching of a pigeon’s egg.

The John Rutter (1945– ) of the Birthday Madrigals is a totally different Rutter from the one of popular Christmas carols. These songs are settings of Elizabethan texts infused with the spirit of jazz, whilst perpetuating the great tradition of English part songs. That Rutter is capable of this level of technical mastery of the jazz idiom, together with his lightness of touch and superb invention, makes for a set of five miniatures indispensable to the choral anthology.

And ECS rose to the challenges, giving us an impressive array of singing – from the nimble, joyful and carefree to soulful blending of voices; from fearless high spirits to judicious balancing of the ladies’ long, lyrical phrases against harmonious humming from the gentlemen. Optional piano accompaniment in the a cappella numbers provided subtle support for tricky shifting harmonies. What a treat to take us to the interval!

Ever since the 10th century if not before, man has made music to glorify his gods – from the monks’ Gregorian chants to the masses of Haydn and Beethoven, each reflecting the conventions of their time. In 1991, Paco Peña created a fiery and rumbustious Misa Flamenca to celebrate the Almighty. So it seems appropriate, inevitable even, that in 2003, Will Todd (1970– ) should decide to make use of a contemporary idiom to fashion his own offering.

Mass in Blue needs small but vital supporting resources – soprano solo, piano, bass, saxophone, drum kit. But smallness in scale does not mean smallness in achievements. Quite the contrary. What shines through is a superbly confident writing technique that is strong, clear, propulsive and above all, enjoyable for both singers and listeners alike.

No one should under-estimate the amount of hard work that the choir must have put in to meet the merciless technical challenges. There are sliding intricacies of jazzy rhythms, seemingly indecipherable within the confines of traditional notation; there are rapid changes of tempi, metre, dynamics and everything else going; there is the uber-cool, quasi-fugal and multi-layered Benedictus – all of these demanding agile and committed singing to maintain the driving momentum. Members of ECS embraced all these hurdles and more, and with the return of the mighty soprano adding fire to the quadraphonic build-up to a bone-shakingly thrilling finale.

Yes, we were gripped. All of us.
Job done. BRAVISSIMO!

Lynda Chang is a local musician and advocate of live music

Image: Mass in Blue – Lisa Swayne and Julian Collings

The Menuhin Hall, one of Surrey’s premier venues for classical music, will once again host its annual Summer Festival from Friday 13 June to Friday 4 July 2025. Set within the tranquil grounds of the Yehudi Menuhin School near Cobham, the festival will feature an exciting line-up of performances by the school’s talented pupils, returning alumni and acclaimed guest artists.

Across three weeks, audiences can look forward to a programme ranging from family-friendly events and solo recitals to orchestral and choral works of significant scale and emotional depth. Visitors are invited to bring picnics and enjoy the setting before performances, with generous intervals designed to enhance the relaxed and celebratory atmosphere.

Programme of Events

Summer Solos
Friday 13 June and Friday 20 June – Grounds open 5.30pm, Concert at 6.30pm
Sunday 15 June and Sunday 22 June – Grounds open 1.30pm, Concert at 2.30pm
This four-part series highlights the individual talents and musical progress of the Yehudi Menuhin School pupils. Audiences will hear a broad repertoire including Brahms’s Hungarian Dances, Tchaikovsky’s Valse Scherzo, Lutosławski’s Subito, and Chen Gang’s Sunshine Over Tashkurgan. There will be a 60-minute interval for refreshments and picnicking in the beautiful school grounds.

Seven Sayings: Triumph
Saturday 28 June – Grounds open 4pm, Concert at 5pm
An inspiring evening featuring Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5, described by E.T.A. Hoffmann as “one of the most important works of the time”, performed alongside Korngold’s Suite for Left Hand Piano and Strings Op. 23.

Family Day: Pictures at an Exhibition
Sunday 29 June – Activities and food from 1pm, Family Concert at 3pm
Family Day offers a chance for children and their families to explore music in a playful and accessible way. The afternoon includes outdoor games, arts and crafts, and refreshments. A special interactive performance of Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition, led by broadcaster and pianist Keelan Carew and ten young pianists, will take the audience on a journey through whimsical musical scenes, from enchanted castles to Baba Yaga’s forest hut. The concert is particularly suitable for children aged 3 to 9, though all are welcome.

Spotlight Concert: Piano Gala
Tuesday 1 July – Concert at 7.30pm
The final Spotlight event of the year showcases the school’s finest young pianists performing a programme of Chopin, Debussy, Ravel, Berg and Schubert. Highlights include Debussy’s Suite Bergamasque, Ravel’s Sonatine, and Chopin’s ballades, recently featured in the Oscar-nominated film A Real Pain.

Leavers’ Picnic
Wednesday 2 July – Grounds open 5pm, Concert at 6.30pm
This special occasion marks the final performance by the school’s leavers. Works by Ravel, Schumann, Liszt and Kodály will be performed, with a symbolic presentation of musical scores to those moving on. The evening includes a 60-minute interval for refreshments.

Seven Sayings: Reunion – The Festival Finale
Friday 4 July – Grounds open 5pm, Concert at 6.30pm
The festival concludes with an emotionally powerful programme featuring James MacMillan’s Seven Last Words from the Cross, performed by the Senior Orchestra, Chamber Choir, conductor Jonathan Bloxham, and the award-winning vocal collective SANSARA. The second half includes Arvo Pärt’s Fratres and Tchaikovsky’s Serenade for Strings, performed by current pupils and alumni.

Ticket Information
Tickets range from £10 to £28.50, with half-price concessions for under-30s.
To book, visit www.menuhinhall.co.uk or contact the Box Office on 01932 559400 / boxoffice@menuhinschool.co.uk.

About The Menuhin Hall
The Menuhin Hall is an award-winning concert venue located on the grounds of the Yehudi Menuhin School. It is both a professional resource for the school’s pupils and a valued part of the local cultural scene, hosting concerts by visiting artists and community ensembles. The hall has been recognised by RIBA and the Civic Trust, among others, for its architectural excellence.

About The Yehudi Menuhin School
Founded in 1963 by renowned violinist Yehudi Menuhin, the school provides an exceptional music education for gifted children aged 9 to 19, regardless of financial background. Alumni include Nicola Benedetti, Nigel Kennedy, Alina Ibragimova and Tasmin Little. Located near Cobham, the school offers a holistic education, with pupils dividing their time between academic and musical studies, and regular opportunities to perform both in the Menuhin Hall and throughout the local community.

For more information, visit www.menuhinschool.co.uk.

Cinema-goers in Epsom are being invited to watch, reflect, and act, as a national eco-film initiative gains local traction.

A new strand of community-focused cinema, “Green Screen,” has arrived at Epsom Picturehouse, offering audiences more than just a night at the movies. Instead, it aims to foster conversation and local action around the pressing issue of climate change.

Following its Epsom debut on Earth Day earlier this year — hosted by The Woodland Trust and focusing on the conservation of Langley Vale Wood — the next Green Screen event is set for Wednesday 9th July 2025 at 8pm, this time in partnership with Extinction Rebellion Epsom & Ewell.

The evening features three short films tackling different aspects of the climate crisis. First up is #ClimateScam? (40 mins), a documentary from Cornwall Climate Care which addresses climate change denial and misinformation. It’s followed by Climate Anxiety (17 mins), a film from Cambridge Movie Makers exploring the psychological toll of environmental collapse. Finally, Plan Z: From Lab Coats to Handcuffs (23 mins), produced by A2Y Productions, tells the story of scientists who risk their careers and freedom by engaging in direct environmental activism.

But it’s not all on-screen. After the screenings, the audience will be invited to stay for a 40-minute panel discussion and Q&A featuring local voices — a doctor, a scientist, an engineer, and a community organiser — all bringing their perspectives to the urgent environmental questions raised by the films.

Joe Stroud of Epsom Picturehouse said:

“We’re proud to see Green Screen take root in Epsom. It’s a strand that thrives when communities take ownership — the films are the catalyst, but it’s the community that brings together their perspectives, expertise, and passion.”

The Green Screen series is a nationwide initiative by Picturehouse Cinemas, transforming theatres into spaces of environmental learning and grassroots conversation. Events across the UK have seen audiences inspired to take local action, supported by partnerships with schools, charities, businesses, and environmental organisations.

True to its ethos, the Epsom screening will extend the invitation to connect beyond the credits. Attendees are encouraged to continue conversations in the Picturehouse’s meeting space over a free tea or filter coffee — if they bring a reusable cup.

Extinction Rebellion Epsom & Ewell, the local host for the July event, is part of the global climate action movement and is active in local campaigning and awareness-raising through non-violent action and community engagement.

Epsom Picturehouse itself is a relatively new addition to the town, having opened in June 2024. Located in Epsom Square, the six-screen venue blends modern programming with vintage touches and a strong focus on community. Its café-bar offers a menu of pizzas, toasties, cakes and drinks, helping turn cinema visits into a more social, immersive experience.

Anyone interested in organising a future Green Screen event in Epsom is encouraged to contact the venue at epsom.marketing@picturehouses.co.uk.

For more information about the 9th July event, readers can contact Warren Bunce of Extinction Rebellion Epsom & Ewell on 07539 069659 or by email at epsomewell@extinctionrebellion.uk.