Miss Alexandra Wood who is a concert violinist and an Old Girl of The Abbey School was the Guest of Honour at Speech Day. She gave an inspiring talk to the girls about her days at The Abbey after which she gained a first in Music at Cambridge University and went on to the Royal College of Music. Her subsequent career involves her performing in major International Festivals as well as teaching.
Miss Wood officially opened the new Music ICT Suite at The Abbey which was fitted out during the summer holidays. Equipped with 21 computers (all with MIDI keyboards and Sibelius music software), this room has already seen a great deal of use. Being able to play or scan music directly into the computer has transformed many composing and arranging tasks. GCSE and A Level musicians are finding it hard to believe we coped without this facility for so long, while younger classes have also been enjoying the extended range of activities that are now possible within class music lessons.
The Chair of Governors Mr Peter Smith, Headmistress Mrs Barbara Stanley, Mr Stephen Willis, Director Of Music and Alexandra enjoyed listening to girls' compositions after the official unveiling of a plaque.