Waltham Forest Music Festival
Our annual Music Festival celebrates the fabulous musical achievements of children from across Waltham Forest.
A Place of Wonder, an ambitious and immersive music production, gave over 600 pupils the opportunity to perform on stage at Soho Theatre Walthamstow on Tuesday, 30 June, with two inspiring shows that celebrated the rich heritage, creativity and natural beauty of Waltham Forest.
Waltham Forest Music Service’s production brought together the Choir of Joy, Funk in the Forest band, and a massed choir formed from 20 Waltham Forest primary schools for a powerful theatrical experience that was enjoyed by all.
Created and directed by Maya Sapone, the show blended original compositions with works by Romantic and Modernist composers, alongside folk traditions and improvisation, and the piece unfolded as a vibrant musical tapestry.
At its core was Kate Stilitz’s evocative Songs of the Forest, a song cycle commissioned by WFMS in 2023 that included young people’s ideas and words, inspired by visits around our local area with Kate herself. These songs provided an atmospheric soundscape that carried audiences through themes of history, nature and a sense of belonging.
The story followed a group of Victorian schoolchildren led by a young William Morris, journeying through familiar local landmarks under the guidance of the mystical Mother Shipton. As the narrative moved through time, the changing landscapes of the borough were brought vividly to life.
Each stage of the journey built towards striking choral moments, culminating in the unified voices of hundreds of young performers. These powerful finales celebrated both the natural environment and the creative spirit of the community, leaving a lasting impression on audiences.
A Place of Wonder stood as a testament to the strength of community collaboration and the transformative power of music, showcasing the talent and imagination of Waltham Forest’s young people while honouring the borough’s cultural and natural heritage.
Massed Primary School Choir on stage at A Place of Wonder
Funk in the Forest playing on stage at A Place of Wonder, Soho Theatre Walthamstow
Little Choir of Joy on stage at A Place of Wonder, Soho Theatre Walthamstow
Our annual Music Festival celebrates the fabulous musical achievements of children from across Waltham Forest.
Waltham Forest pupils perform their unique version of Mozart's Magic Flute opera
Our junior choir performed songs from the Hansel and Gretel Opera.