On Saturday 23rd May, Swanmore College Jazz Ensemble enjoyed a fantastic afternoon performing at the Newtown Church Fete in the grounds of Meonwood House. Set against one of the hottest days of the year, the fete offered a wonderful traditional atmosphere with stalls, vintage cars, strawberries and cream, tombola and candy floss—creating the perfect backdrop for live music on a Bank holiday weekend.

Our ensemble performed a lively set including favourites such as The Chicken, Chameleon and Pass the Peas, playing at the entrance to welcome visitors and later in the Café Arena. Their performances were met with an incredibly warm reception, with many visitors commenting that the jazz ensemble was a highlight of the day.

Every pupil rose to the occasion brilliantly, embracing the challenge of solo improvisation with confidence, style and enthusiasm—particularly impressive in the heat!

A huge thank you goes to Mr Beer for leading the ensemble and preparing them so thoroughly for the event, and to Arthur, Erin, Grace, Isla, Will and Will for giving up the start of their half term holiday to perform. Miss Shaw acted as tour manager, roadie and official photographer!

We were also delighted to receive many compliments from organisers and members of the public about the standard of the performance. With the fete raising an incredible £18,000, we feel very proud to have been part of such a special and successful community event.

If you’d like to hear more from our talented musicians, please join us at our Summer Concert in the Main Hall on Monday, 22 June at 6.30pm, where you will also hear choirs, concert band, chamber orchestra, rock bands, and a range of outstanding soloists. Tickets are £5 and can be purchased through Scopay.