Portsmouth Schools to unite in song to mark 80 years since VE Day

After Easter, ten schools from across Portsmouth will come together to begin filming a very special music video to mark 80 years since VE Day. The project will bring young voices from across the city to the forefront in a heartfelt musical tribute to this historic moment of peace and celebration.

 The song, composed especially for the occasion by Iain Gilmour, captures the joy and relief felt at the end of the Second World War. With uplifting lyrics and a powerful melody, the piece reminds us of the importance of hope, unity, and resilience through the eyes of a new generation.

“It was six long years, but now it’s over, 

We can live our lives devoid of fear” 

Sings the opening verse, setting the tone for a moving reflection on peace hard-won. The chorus brings the scenes of celebration vividly to life: 

“We waved our flags, 

We raised a cheer. 

All the streets were crowded, 

As the parties spread.” 

 Filming will take place across various schools, with the final video set for release on 8TH May, to coincide with VE Day commemorations. The project aims not only to honour the past but also to help young people connect with history in a meaningful and creative way.

 "This project gives our young people a chance to understand and express what VE Day means through music and performance. It’s a celebration of peace, community, and the enduring power of song." - Sue Beckett, CEO of Portsmouth Music Hub

 The collaboration reflects the city’s longstanding commitment to arts education and remembrance, offering a poignant reminder that even 80 years on, the echoes of VE Day still resonate today.

PORTSMOUTH JOINS A ROYAL CELEBRATION OF COMMUNITY MUSIC

Heather Uden (left), David Mallett (middle), Matt Dixon (right)

Portsmouth musicians joined a special reception hosted by his Majesty King Charles at Windsor Castle to celebrate the work of community musicians across the country.

 Matt Dixon, David Mallett and Heather Uden had the honour of representing Portsmouth Music Hub, joining around 350 guests for an evening that placed music and the people who make it - at its heart.

The celebration began with a concert featuring performances from the London Gay Men’s Chorus, students from the Royal College of Music, the Sing for Freedom Choir, and saxophonist YolanDa Brown.

David Mallett and King Charles III

During the reception, guests were treated to further performances from The Songs for Ukraine Chorus and the wonderfully inventive London Vegetable Orchestra. One of the most memorable moments came when His Majesty joined in with the orchestra, playing along with Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star on a carrot.

 Portsmouth City Council Leader Cllr Steve Pitt said, “Portsmouth Music Hub offers an innovative, award-winning musical education to Portsmouth’s children and young people from different backgrounds, so it’s great the Music Hub and staff were part of this national celebration. It was an evening the proved once again how music brings communities together in really meaningful ways.”

Over 400 Young Singers Shine at Infant Voices Showcase

Over 400 young voices filled Portsmouth Guildhall with music and excitement last night as children from across the city took to the stage for this year’s Infant Voices Showcase: My Dream Job.

The event celebrated the hopes and aspirations of the next generation, with pupils singing about the careers they dream of pursuing in the future. From astronauts to artists, teachers to firefighters, the enthusiasm and joy of the young performers lit up the venue and delighted the audience.

Organised by Portsmouth Music Hub, the showcase brought together infant schools from across the city in a spectacular celebration of music, community, and ambition.

"It was truly inspiring to see so many young people singing with such energy and confidence. Events like this not only nurture musical talent but also encourage children to dream big and believe in their future potential."

– Sue Beckett, CEO of Portsmouth Music Hub

The Infant Voices Showcase is part of a wider programme of musical opportunities offered throughout the year, providing children with the chance to perform in professional venues and build lifelong memories.

Portsmouth Students Dazzle at Soundsational! 2025

Portsmouth, 18th March 2025 – Students from secondary schools and colleges across Portsmouth took centre stage at the iconic Portsmouth Guildhall for Soundsational! 2025, delivering an unforgettable evening of music, dance, and show-stopping performances.

The event showcased the dedication, passion, and immense talent of young performers from across the city. Audiences were treated to an electrifying programme featuring musical theatre hits from Sister Act, Come From Away, and Pippin, alongside high-energy band performances of songs by Queen, Wheatus, and Stereophonics, to name a few.

"Soundsational! is always a highlight of the year, and this year’s event was no exception. The energy, enthusiasm, and sheer talent on display were truly inspiring," said Sue Beckett, CEO of Portsmouth Music Hub.

A huge congratulations to all the students, teachers, and organisers who made the evening such a resounding success. Their hard work and commitment to the performing arts continue to make Portsmouth a vibrant hub for young talent.

For more photos and highlights from the evening, visit: https://www.portsmouthmusichub.org/soundsational-2025

Portsmouth Music Service Launches ‘Top Brass’

Portsmouth Music Service is delighted to announce the launch of its brand-new brass beginners ensemble, ‘Top Brass,’ which held its first rehearsal this week at Gatcombe Park Primary School.

This exciting and FREE ensemble is open to young brass players of all levels and takes place every Wednesday (term time only) from 4:30 pm to 5:30 pm. The group provides a fun and supportive environment for budding musicians to develop their skills, build confidence, and enjoy the magic of making music together.

“We were thrilled to welcome students who participated in our whole-class brass lessons during the autumn term. It was fantastic to see their enthusiasm, and we were even joined by a few dads who decided to stay and give it a go themselves. It created such a wonderful, community-focused atmosphere.” - Sue Beckett, CEO of Portsmouth Music Hub

‘Top Brass’ is designed to nurture a love for brass playing while fostering teamwork and creativity. Led by experienced and passionate tutor Simon Nicholls from Portsmouth Music Service, the sessions are perfect for young musicians who are just starting their journey or looking for an opportunity to play in a group setting.

Spaces are still available, and Portsmouth Music Service encourages any young brass players in the area to come along and join the fun. Whether you play the trumpet, trombone, or any other brass instrument, ‘Top Brass’ is the perfect place to get inspired and start your musical adventure.

For more information about ‘Top Brass’ or other opportunities offered by Portsmouth Music Service, please follow this link - https://www.portsmouthmusichub.org/top-brass-ensemble

Over 3,000 Portsmouth Young People Join Forces for Festive Music Video

Portsmouth Music Hub is thrilled to announce the release of the music video Christmas Time Is Here, featuring over 3,000 young people from 17 schools across the city. The video celebrates the joys and challenges of the festive season, bringing schools together through the power of music.  

Christmas Time Is Here is a brand-new song composed by Iain Gilmour, one of Portsmouth Music Hub’s talented composers. The song captures the essence of the season, reflecting on everything from decorating Christmas trees and singing carols to the quirks of modern festivities, like the shrinking size of sweet tins and the love-it-or-hate-it debate over Brussels sprouts.  

The 17 schools participating in the project each brought their unique flair to the performance. Some schools featured their entire student body, while others showcased their dedicated choirs, resulting in a dynamic and diverse celebration of music and community spirit.  

"It’s absolutely wonderful to see schools from across the city coming together to celebrate the festive season. Music has the power to unite and inspire, and this project is a shining example of the creativity and enthusiasm of Portsmouth’s young people."

Sue Beckett, CEO of Portsmouth Music Hub

The Christmas Time Is Here music video is a joyful showcase of the city's talent and togetherness, highlighting the importance of arts education in fostering creativity and connection.

Cross Keys Choir at Music For Youth Proms

50 young singers from Portsmouth thrilled audiences after they were selected from thousands of nationwide music groups to perform in the Music for Youth Proms at the Royal Albert Hall this week.

Featuring students from St. John's RC Cathedral Primary School and St. Edmund's School, the choir performed two original songs, One World and Change Maker.

Portsmouth Music Hub's Cross Keys Choir did a magnificent job representing our city and sharing key messages about protecting our planet and making a difference to our world through their fantastic performance.

The Music Man Project Portsmouth

Portsmouth Music Hub is excited to announce the launch of The Music Man Project, Portsmouth, a vibrant music initiative designed for individuals aged 11 and above with learning disabilities. This project, in collaboration with the Portsmouth Down Syndrome Association, offers a unique blend of singing, signing, movement, and percussion in a welcoming and inclusive environment.

Whether you're a seasoned performer or new to music, everyone is welcome to join. The Music Man Project UK is a national Music Education Service that empowers individuals with learning disabilities through the joy of music. Participants in Portsmouth will learn a repertoire of exciting songs over the next two years, culminating in a special performance at the prestigious Royal Albert Hall.

The sessions are designed to inspire creativity and build confidence in our participants. We can’t wait to see everyone’s musical journey unfold!

Sign up for a taster session!
Kickstart your musical journey every Wednesday during term time from 5pm to 6pm at Redwood Park Academy.

For more information about The Music Man Project, Portsmouth, please visit: The Music Man ProjectPortsmouth.