School band makes 19th appearance at Lord’s Cricket Ground

Over 100 pupils in the Christ’s Hospital School band made their 19th appearance for the MCC at Lord’s on Saturday, May 18.
Christs Hospital Band at Lords - courtesy of Matt BrightChrists Hospital Band at Lords - courtesy of Matt Bright
Christs Hospital Band at Lords - courtesy of Matt Bright

They performed on the pitch during the interval of the England vs New Zealand 1st Test.

The Christ’s Hospital band has a long association with Lord’s and is very proud to be invited to perform at such a prestigious engagement.

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In their striking Tudor uniform, the musicians were led onto the pitch by sixth formers Francis Scarr, Band Captain and Michael Dress, Senior Drum Major.

“The build-up was tense,” said Band Master, Terry Whittingham. “The pupils obviously never get the chance to practice on the actual pitch but they successfully transferred their skills from the 1st XI cricket square at Christ’s Hospital to make it fit on the day.

“It was a great experience to play at the home of cricket and they were well received by the crowd.”

Of the many complimentary comments received, one member of the crowd said: “How astonished and amazed I was (once again) at the quality of music and precision of marching of the Christ’s Hospital Band at Lord’s.

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“It was a fabulous display, thoroughly enjoyed by myself and my two Kiwi guests. The children should be really proud of themselves.”

Christ’s Hospital, near Horsham, enjoys a long tradition of musical excellence.

The majority of pupils learn an instrument and musical groups have lots of opportunities to perform in school and at venues such as the Royal Festival Hall and St John’s Smith Square.

On the cricket field, former pupils associated with the sport include Lt Col John R Stephenson, secretary of the MCC from 1987 to 1993; Dennis Silk, president 1992 to 1994 and Chairman of the TCCB 1994 to 1996; and John Snow, a great fast bowler for Sussex and England.

Pictured here is Christ’s Hospital Band at Lord’s – courtesy of Matt Bright

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