Bergvliet High School’s music department were crowned winners of the V&A Waterfront’s High School Band Slam on last month, beating 11 other Western Cape schools in the annual competition that awards the first place winner R25 000.
The school has previously won the annual competition in 2020.
This year the school’s leadership team were unable to attend the final competition event, the current principal Patricia Demas stated on the school’s Facebook page, because they were saying goodbye to the outgoing principal Stephen Price.
“We were definitely with them in spirit, to such an extent, that as Mr Price was saying his speech to his guests, a guest shared the wonderful news. Mr Price could feel his phone vibrating in his pocket, as a teacher, Simon Van Harte, attempted to call him from the stage, when the announcement was made,” Mrs Demas stated.
“One cannot count the endless hours of sacrifice before, during and after school, that both staff and learners had to make to ensure the night’s success. If ever the Bergvliet High School SGB wondered if the Cultural Building was a worthwhile investment (where the music department resides), then Friday evening’s success reaffirmed this for them,” she added.
Lynn Hannibal, the head of the music department, sharing her thoughts on the night’s success, said: “I am so proud of the band for their musicianship and professionalism displayed in all rehearsals and at the two breath-taking performances. A huge thank you to all the Music Department teachers for their tireless efforts to prepare and encourage the band members. To the parents, thank you for believing in us as a band and as teachers. Your sacrifices have paid off. Your children will remember this band slam for a lifetime.”
Mr Price says the band slam win was the cherry on top of all the festivities surrounding his last day at Bergvliet High School.
“The Music Department not only raised the bar for our own learners, other schools competing, but also nearly blew the roof off of the V&A Waterfront. To our music department learners and staff, we are tremendously proud of you and Friday night will be remembered for a very long time, by all who were there. We wish you continued success in the years to come.”
