Music concert hits right note as curtain comes down for last time

Music concert hits right note as curtain comes down for last time

24 April 2024

OLD meets new was very much the theme of St Patrick’s Grammar School’s 90th anniversary concert, which was held in the school's McGrady Hall on Thursday evening.

The programme featured current talent in the form of the musicians and singers who attend the school, fused with that of many past pupils who had been stalwarts of similar productions for many years.

As this was the final opportunity to perform in the ‘Red High’ before the school closes on August 31, there was tremendous determination shown by many of the alumni to be there.

Some had rearranged foreign business trips and other commitments and travelled a considerable distance to be there for this unique and poignant evening of celebration.

 In keeping with the spirit of previous concerts, there was great variety in the programme that included everything from classical music – Bach, Puccini and Jenkins – to favourites from musical theatre including Les Misérables, Joseph and Hamilton.

The show was opened by the St. Patrick’s Grammar and Down High School Shared Education Choir and featured 48 singers and 27 musicians.

The audience was thrilled by impressive performances from traditional Irish musicians and dancers and delighted by the jazz, blues, folk and rock items, a mix of cover and original acts.

With a father-son duet and the appearance on stage of Barbies, the audience experienced a wide range of emotions. The final act, Parting Glass, sung by the school choir, featuring past and current staff and students, earned a standing ovation. 

The school principal, Joe McCann, paid tribute to all who performed and thanked them for their loyalty and commitment, not only on this occasion, but on the many occasions when they willingly gave of their time to entertain the Red High family.

Recognising the contribution made by so many former teachers, many of whom were present, Mr McCann observed that this was a sad occasion as it marked the last time that many would sing, play or dance in the famous maroon blazer.

He also praised the contribution of the musical director, Celeste McEvoy, for her untiring work, over many years, in making memorable events happen and using her powers of persuasion to bring everyone together to create such an enjoyable event.

After 90 years, the curtain has come down for the last time, on the Red High stage.