'Jazz it Up' at Cheltenham Jazz Festival

Cheltenham Jazz Festival goers were treated to a performance by the Bournside Jazz Band on the Bank Holiday Weekend as part of the 'Jazz it Up' showcase of Gloucestershire's young musical talent on the Free Stage.

Mr Cutress, Head of Music said, "We were thrilled to be given the opportunity to perform at this year's Jazz Festival. The students performed with a great sense of character and really came alive on such a big stage. There were smiles on the faces of everyone, both in the band and in the audience, it was a joy to behold. A special thank you goes out to Thomas Agombar in Year 13 who was performing in his final ever Bournside event. It was also a pleasure to see so many students stick around to watch some of the other fabulous events throughout the weekend!"

Mrs Groves, Assistant Headteacher, said, "It was a real pleasure to perform with the Jazz Band on the saxophone. It was a great experience for the pupils to perform on the main stage and we were supported by a great audience. The atmosphere was fantastic."

The band had lots of support, performing to a packed tent. Feedback from the audience included:

"We wanted to email to say how much we enjoyed seeing the Bournside Jazz band play at the Cheltenham Music Festival. The musicians played the pieces so well and were an absolute credit to the school. Thank you for organising this opportunity... and for all the support you are giving them."

"Can I just say a massive well done to you all today, a brilliant performance!"

"Huge congratulations on this morning. The band were just brilliant."

Former Bournside student, Felicity Mitchell, also performed at the Festival in a university showcase at the Bottle of Sauce. Inspired by her music teachers at Bournside, ukelele player Felicity went on to study music technology at Stroud and South Gloucestershire College and is now in her final year of studying music at the University of Gloucestershire.