Schools’ musical celebration Singing in the Rain returns

Hundreds of pupils from across Wolverhampton are preparing for a spectacular musical celebration in Queen Square on Tuesday (23 May, 2023).

Around 1,100 children from 32 primary and special schools will be taking part in the free vocal workshops, which run from 11am to noon and 1-2pm.

They will perform songs in a wide range of styles and traditions led by Paul Wilcox, vocal lead for Wolverhampton Music Education Hub. Songs will be accompanied by a Wolverhampton Music Service live band and British Sign Language interpreters will also be present.

Tuesday’s performance marks the culmination of a six-month project run by the Music Service. Teachers from schools around Wolverhampton have taken part in workshops, both online and at the Music Service, where they learned songs which they could subsequently teach in their own schools.

Sarah Tulley, Assistant Head of the Music Service, said “We are delighted that so many schools are able to take part in Singing in the Rain again this year.

“We are always excited to welcome live music-making to our city centre, and with a huge primary and special school choir and live Music Service band, this promises to be a day for everyone to remember.”

Councillor Chris Burden, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, added: "Music is a really important part of a young person's education, and this is a great chance to showcase the talents of our city's children and young people. I'd encourage everyone to come along to the city centre on Tuesday and enjoy the show!"

Though the forecast is currently set fair, in the event of poor weather, the children will perform in St Peter’s Collegiate Church, though please note that there is no space for an audience in the church. However, with waterproof ponchos provided for each child, a light rain shower won’t stop the singing in Queen Square.

Wolverhampton Music Service provides high quality tuition and musical opportunities for youngsters from schools across the city, including the chance to perform with its flagship groups, Wolverhampton Youth Orchestra and Wolverhampton Youth Wind Orchestra. To find out more, please visit www.wolverhamptonmusicservice.org.uk.