Choirs from primary schools across the local area have taken part in the first ever Colfe’s Choir Festival for Key Stage 1 pupils (ages 5-7).

This inaugural event, organised by Colfe’s School in Lee, saw over 150 young singers take part from across Lewisham, Blackheath and Eltham.

Professional vocal coach and mezzo soprano, Yvie Burnett, best known for her work on TV’s X Factor, The Voice and Let It Shine was the Festival’s special guest host.

The Colfe’s Choir Festival is one of the first school choir events in the area which is aimed at pupils aged 7 years and under. The festival offered the opportunity for five primary schools to showcase their young choirs, joining together in a celebration of singing and music. The event was opened by a performance from Colfe's Senior School Chamber Choir.

Head of Colfe’s Junior School Catriona Macleod said “We were delighted to welcome so many local schools to Colfe’s for our first Choir Festival, it was wonderful to have the chance to simply celebrate the amazing musical talent we have in our local area and enjoy some fantastic performances.” More than 300 invited guests watched as the choirs from All Saints Church of England School, Blackheath Preparatory School, Deansfield Primary School and St Winifred’s Catholic Primary School performed a selection of songs including Sing, Zum Gali Gali, Underneath the Sea, Magical Kingdom and Easter Egg Hunt.

Giving the children positive feedback throughout the afternoon, vocal coach Yvie Burnett said, “As a child I sang in choirs from a very early age which I am sure was the reason I always had such a passion for singing. I encouraged both my children to sing in choirs and music was such an important part of their upbringing.

“I'm a great believer that singing together is a lovely discipline for children because although they are having fun, they are also learning to listen to each other and remember what they have learnt. “I’m delighted to have been involved in this fabulous afternoon at Colfe’s School where above all I was able to sit back and be very entertained.”

Submitted by Elizabeth Drury