13 October 2020

Aberdeenshire pupils enjoy 'A Song for Haddo'

Pupils from New Deer, Pitmedden and Rayne North primary schools alongside Alford, Ellon, Inverurie, Kemnay, Meldrum and Westhill Academies were featured as part of the culmination of this year’s Haddo Arts Festival.

‘A Song for Haddo 2020: Fables and Foibles’ was shared on YouTube, featuring children and young people who have been busy preparing and recording their contributions from home.

The online virtual performance included over 150 young singers and instrumentalists and the McOpera Ensemble who have put a whole new spin on what is usually an in-person live programme and final performance.

New Deer School has been involved in A Song for Haddo for four years, since it was launched.

Head Teacher, Heather Milne explained how pleased they are to be part of it all once again. She said: “It has always been a very exciting opportunity for the children to be involved in. In previous years this has been a fabulous opportunity for the children to work directly with professional musicians and songwriters such as Moira Morrison and although it has been challenging to work in a different way this time, MacOpera have been able to provide us with lots of great materials. The children have embraced this and have been keen to upload their sound and video clips from home.

“The children’s voices along with the orchestra – even at a distance – is something quite magnificent. This year’s effort demonstrates an innovative way we have moved forward in learning and teaching, working in partnership with the arts.”

Councillor Gillian Owen, Chair of Aberdeenshire Council’s Education and Children’s Services Committee added: “We’re really pleased to see so many schools taking part this year and what a wonderful opportunity for our students. Well done to all of you who are involved, your lovely teachers and everyone who has helped to enable this wonderful cultural experience for our children and young people. I can’t wait to watch the full performance!”

View the performance trailer: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHVIsnrY8ozVxpTh1MrwJpg

Find out more about Haddo Arts: https://www.haddoarts.com/events/a-song-for-haddo