Our annual residential to High Ashurst is a long-standing Sutton Music Service tradition and very popular with students, tutors, and parents. This weekend event starts on Friday evening with games and events to help the students get to know one another – there is always lots of fun and laughter!

On Saturday, there is a full day of rehearsals, focusing on new repertoire and ensemble skills. The students then complete a series of team-building exercises, including a high ropes course, balancing games and some active brain teasers! There is also plenty of downtime and additional activities for students. The last trip included toasting marshmallows over a campfire before paying a visit to the tuck shop and settling down in one of the cabins to watch a DVD.

The last course ran in March 2020, and for many of our students, it was the first time they had stayed away from home. Upon arrival at High Ashurst, students were shown their cabins and their rooms. Parents were able to come and see the cabins and help with bed-making and unpacking.

The Ensemble and Choir enjoyed rehearsing various repertoire, which was recorded on Sunday afternoon – this was done instead of an open rehearsal, which is the usual tradition at the end of the weekend. The food is always a highlight at High Ashurst, with many students (and staff!) enjoying the delicious meals available.