On Tuesday 12 July 2022, pupils from Low Road and Windmill Music Federation were honoured to perform at Leeds Millennium Square as part of the Queen’s Baton Relay.
After travelling around the Commonwealth, the Baton is now on its final journey around the country leading up to the opening ceremony of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games at the end of this month on 28 July.
Over 100 pupils, led by Class Dynamix creator Danny Gough, took part in the once-in-a-lifetime performance. Singing three songs including ‘Light up for Leeds’ (an original commission), the pupils performed to crowds of spectators and a number of special guests including Alistair and Jonny Brownlee, and the Lord Mayor of Leeds, Councillor Robert Gettings.
Pupils were lucky enough to be behind the scenes as the Brownlee brothers, with Baton, went on stage. Slowing the route down slightly, pupils were given high fives from both brothers as they carried the Baton to its resting point. This definitely calmed some pre-show nerves.
From the the stage, it was clear to see emotional parents listening to the children sing their hearts out … and what a performance it was!
One parent greeted her son with:
“Look at you, you superstar singing in front of all those people. I am so proud of you!”
The staff accompanying the pupils couldn’t agree more. Miss Messenger, Year 3 teacher at Low Road Primary School said:
“I enjoyed every moment of the evening and felt immensely proud watching the children perform on such a big stage alongside other talented musicians!”
Mr Ainsworth, Year 6 teacher at Windmill Primary School also commented:
“A great opportunity for the kids to perform at such a big event, sharing a stage with some major acts. They all did us proud!”
It is hard to express how this event made the children feel; some of the words and phrases overheard on the coach back to school included: magical, superb, spectacular and (of course) nerve-racking!
Federation Safeguarding Lead, Sandra Senior, seen waving a 10 year anniversary of Child Friendly Leeds flag said:
“An amazing experience for one and all! The singing was outstanding and as alway impeccable behaviour. Brilliant job to all involved”
Low Road and Windmill Music Federation look forward to their next public appearance – whatever that may be!
This post was written by Caroline Harvison
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