It was a delight to spend two days with Andrew McIntosh, our guest examiner for the ACMS End-of-Year Assessments.

The assessments provided an opportunity for pupils to perform a recital on their principal study instrument, perform on their second study instrument, and demonstrate examples of the technical exercises they have been working on throughout the year. Following each assessment, Mr McIntosh provided detailed and thoughtful feedback to every pupil.

As an experienced teacher, professional musician and Associated Board examiner, Mr McIntosh brings a unique perspective to these assessments. His feedback reflects not only the standards expected by examination boards, but also the realities of professional music-making and the long-term development of young musicians.

I was delighted to hear Mr McIntosh comment on the overall quality of the performances. He was particularly impressed not only by the technical accomplishments of our pupils and the care with which they had prepared their repertoire, but also by the way they presented their performances, spoke about the music, communicated mood and character, and demonstrated an understanding of the composers’ intentions. These were not simply performances of notes on a page; they were thoughtful and engaging musical presentations.

One of the themes that emerged during the assessments was the sense that our pupils have been working consistently over a long period of time, rather than preparing solely for a single examination performance. The quality of the playing reflected sustained technical development, careful practice habits and long-term musical thinking.

Following the assessments, Mr McIntosh carefully considered every performance before selecting the winners of the Aberdeen City Music School Junior Performer of the Year and Senior Performer of the Year awards. These awards will be formally announced at the Dyce Academy Celebrating Success Evening next Wednesday.

We are always extremely grateful to Mr McIntosh for giving up his time to work with such care, professionalism and generosity with our young musicians.

Following the assessments, we also had an opportunity to reflect together during assembly. We discussed the many things that had gone well and considered areas that we would each like to develop further. It is always encouraging to see the maturity with which our pupils approach both success and self-improvement as they continue their musical journeys.

What a wonderful evening we enjoyed at our Summer Concert last Saturday at Fountain Hall at the Cross.

Over the previous eight days, ACMS pupils had taken part in an incredible eight external trips and events. It has quite possibly been one of the most demanding and intensive periods our pupils have experienced, and it has been inspiring to see their passion, commitment, resilience and professionalism throughout.

The concert showcased many of the musical highlights of the year, featuring a mixture of favourite repertoire, revived works and exciting new pieces prepared especially for the occasion. The result was a memorable evening of music-making and a fitting celebration of another successful year.

Our sincere thanks go to the team at Fountain Hall for their hospitality and support, to our exceptional tutors for all their preparation and dedication, to the Parents’ Committee for helping host the evening, to our boarding staff for the outstanding care they provide, and to Miss Arthur and her team for their continued support of ACMS.

Most importantly, congratulations to all our pupils for their outstanding performances and for the dedication, enthusiasm and professionalism they have demonstrated throughout what has been a remarkable few weeks.

Finally, thank you to the ACMS staff team, whose tireless work behind the scenes makes experiences such as these possible. The success of our school is built upon their commitment and generosity.

What a way to round off an extraordinary week.

We are delighted to once again present our Summer Prom Concert at King’s Church, Bridge of Don, on Wednesday 1 July at 6.30 pm.

As always, this concert will be entirely devoted to pop music and provides a wonderful opportunity for pupils to perform in a different style and atmosphere from many of our other events throughout the year.

With black tie, evening dress, returning former pupils and plenty of familiar favourites, it promises to be a fantastic evening for performers and audience alike.

Please do come along and join us. Bring family, bring friends, and help us celebrate the end of another successful year at ACMS.

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