YOUNG people across Colchester rocked out at an event attended by more than 200 people.
The event, which took place this year at Colchester Arts Centre on March 8, was started by Nigel Hildreth as a chance for young musicians to perform at a professional venue.
Twelve youth bands performed from a range of schools and colleges including Colchester Royal Grammar School, Thurstable School, Colchester County High School for Girls, Philip Morant, Colchester Institute, St Mary’s, and The Sixth Form College.
Nigel said the night was huge success, with him recognising “some covers” as well as being particularly impressed by the number of students who performed original songs.
Nigel said: “There is a lot of talent but I would also express some concern that schools are struggling to get children involved in music making.
“There are always exceptions with strong schools but many schools have been very badly impacted by Covid, which had such an impact when you could not meet as an ensemble in orchestras or bands in schools “
Nigel started the Colchester Schools Prom Concert in 2000, working in partnership with Colchester Colne Round Table, and said that after several years, it became clear that Charter Hall was not a suitable venue for any rock groups from the schools.
So, Nigel created the Rock Prom as a sister event which he says is an “opportunity for hundreds of young musicians to perform at a professional venue”.
Nigel explained the winner of the Colchester Sixth Form “knockout-style” competition performed in last week’s concert.
However, Nigel said the Rock Prom was not a competition itself firstly due to the range of ages and subjective styles, as the focus is on providing an incredible experience for young people.
Headded that it was great to see so many girls be involved, as it is important to encourage all to learn music and be able to showcase their talents.
Further tickets were sold at a low price to help parents come, with more than 200 people being attendance.
Next week, the ‘Colchester Schools Prom Concert’ will be held at Charter Hall on Friday March 22 at 7pm with nine secondary schools participating with more than 300 children expected.
Ticket for ‘Colchester Schools Prom Concert’ are available from the Colchester Arts Centre here.
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