A number of events have been held by the School to mark the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.
A specially themed concert, in which every piece was linked to either kings or queens, took place at the School as part of a series of special musical events celebrating the Jubilee. At the Kings and Queens Concert in the Shearly Hall, there were performances from the Concert Band, Senior Strings, Top Brass, the Choir, the Camerata and the Symphony Orchestra. Pieces included highlights from Scheherazade and an arrangement of Henry VIII’s Pastime with Good Company. Haydn’s Emperor Quartet contrasted with the perennial favourite, Queen’s Bohemian Rhapsody. The second half of the concert featured Handel’s Entry of the Queen of Sheba and William Walton’s Crown Imperial.
Several teachers performed readings from the writings of monarchs – Henry VIII and Elizabeth I – and from kings and queens in literature. QE’s Director of Music, Kieron Howe described it as “an evening of full and varied entertainment that all enjoyed”.
The School also held a special Jubilee-themed lunch in a bunting-decked Refectory (pictured above), where boys and staff enjoyed street party type delicacies including grilled chicken, cucumber sandwiches and jam and cream scones.
At an earlier concert (pictured below), also to mark the Jubilee, QE boys joined pupils from Mill Hill County High School![""]("/images/Jubilee)
As part of the celebrations, more than 70 trees are being planted in local schools. QE has received a witch hazel which has been planted in the grounds, near the School gate, with a plaque commemorating the Diamond Jubilee.