Music is back on the play list in a big way at Dunmow school

George Wilkins (Image: Archant)

THE arrival of new teacher has signalled the start of big changes in the music provision at a Dunmow school.

Pani Charalambous has already launched new clubs at The Helena Romanes School, which give students the opportunity to take part and enjoy music every day of the school week.

Opportunities include choir, orchestra, wind band, string, guitar and keyboard clubs taking place at lunchtimes each day.

They recently performed to the crowds at the Farleigh Hospice Race for Life in Chelmsford and have gigs planned at the Ford End School summer fete and at the Royal Albert Hall where they will perform with two other schools.

Mr Charalambous, who also has ambitious plans to hold regular concerts, said: “A school of this size should be offering students a wide variety of musical experiences. That is very important to me and I am working hard to make it happen here at HRS. Secondary school is where we should grow and develop as an individual.

“The children are getting excited about the opportunities, because I am excited about them, too. When they are encouraged and motivated and their expectations raised, they achieve so much.”

The aim is to hold music concerts at the end of each term, as well as regular lunchtime concerts and cultural evenings.

Mr Charalambous said: “We want to have a vibrant music department which is an exciting place where learning is taking place and where students are having positive music experiences.”