On Friday 20th March six Dorset schools came together to deliver a singing event that was more than just a performance – it was a celebration of confidence, creativity, and community spirit!
The schools (Trinity First, St. Ives Primary, St. Mary’s First, West Moors, Cranborne First, Oakhurst Community First and 3 Legged Cross First) had the opportunity to work with the amazing and multi-talented Cathy Murray. Cathy delivered 2 workshops in each school to teach the children songs, and provide CPD to the class teachers.
The schools came together at Verwood Hub to perform in the Merryfield Theatre (Named after local legend, Buster Merryfield, who played Uncle Albert in Only fools and horses). The children performed individual songs to each other and also sang a small collection of collaborative songs together. They performed to an audience of family members with a ‘Sing it loud’ approach!
School performances like this do so much more than entertain. They help students:
🎵 Build Confidence – Stepping onto a stage encourages children to believe in themselves and showcase their abilities.
🤝 Strengthen Teamwork – Singing in groups teaches the importance of listening, supporting each other, and working toward a shared goal.
🧠 Boost Wellbeing – Music has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance focus—great benefits both in and out of the classroom.
💬 Develop Communication Skills – Performing helps children express themselves clearly and confidently.
🎨 Encourage Creativity – Singing opens the door for imagination, emotion, and artistic expression.
Here’s a quote from one of the teachers;
“I just wanted to say a big thank you for Friday – the singing event was a joy to be part of – thank you for all the planning and organisation from Dorset Music Service as well as the teaching and workshops that went into it. Thank you Cathy for all your wonderful enthusiasm.
I thought the joint singing in particular was incredibly powerful. What fantastic learning to have the experience of performing on stage to a large audience in a theatre! It was lovely.“