A Bushey school held a sold-out concert in Southwark Cathedral to mark the retirement of a beloved teacher.
Edward Longstaff has been a member of staff at The Purcell School since 1993. During this time, his roles have included academic music teaching, orchestral and choral conducting, chamber music coaching, and composition teaching.
After 31 years, Edward is retiring at the end of this academic year. A concert was held in his honour at Southwark Cathedral on Thursday, June 27.
This was Edward’s last performance with the school and was “very emotional” for all involved.
For Beethoven’s 9th Symphony, which Edward conducted, the school assembled a choir of more than 100 alumni alongside a 60-strong orchestra.
A spokesperson for the school said: “The whole school was in attendance and, on one of the longest days of the year, it was a truly memorable occasion.”
Elstree and Borehamwood councillor Tushar Kumar, who attended the concert, said: “The concert was an incredible showcase of talent, highlighting the exceptional musical education at the school. It was also a touching farewell to Edward Longstaff, leaving after 31 years of dedicated service.”
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