0:00:02 > 0:00:05It's the final of the Songs Of Praise
0:00:05 > 0:00:08School Choir Of The Year competition.
0:00:08 > 0:00:11The best junior and senior school choirs in the UK
0:00:11 > 0:00:13are back in Birmingham to sing once more
0:00:13 > 0:00:19as they strive to become the School Choir Of The Year for 2014.
0:00:23 > 0:00:25APPLAUSE
0:00:25 > 0:00:28Welcome to the International Convention Centre Birmingham.
0:00:28 > 0:00:32Over the last two weeks, 12 school choirs have become six
0:00:32 > 0:00:37and today, one of these three junior choirs will hold aloft this -
0:00:37 > 0:00:42the Songs of Praise School Choir Of The Year trophy for 2014.
0:00:42 > 0:00:46Later on, it will be the turn of the best three senior choirs.
0:00:46 > 0:00:51First of all, it is my great pleasure to introduce our junior choir finalists.
0:00:51 > 0:00:55They are, from Cowbridge in the Vale of Glamorgan,
0:00:55 > 0:00:56Ysgol Iolo Morganwg!
0:00:56 > 0:00:58CHEERING
0:01:01 > 0:01:04From Huddersfield, Lindley Junior School.
0:01:04 > 0:01:08CHEERING
0:01:08 > 0:01:10And from Llanelli, Llangennech Junior School!
0:01:10 > 0:01:13CHEERING
0:01:15 > 0:01:18What amazing support for our junior school choir finalists.
0:01:18 > 0:01:20Before these young voices sing,
0:01:20 > 0:01:22I would like to introduce my co-host for today.
0:01:22 > 0:01:25Please welcome Claire McCollum.
0:01:29 > 0:01:32Listen, Claire, you're going to be backstage speaking to the choirs.
0:01:32 > 0:01:34Are there going to be tears or tantrums today?
0:01:34 > 0:01:37I think they are delighted to have made it to the final.
0:01:37 > 0:01:38The hard work has been done.
0:01:38 > 0:01:40They have just got to go out there and enjoy it.
0:01:40 > 0:01:43And I just feel very much for the parents in the audience today.
0:01:43 > 0:01:45Because it will be nerve-racking for them
0:01:45 > 0:01:47as well as backstage for the young ones.
0:01:47 > 0:01:50Thanks, Claire. Get ready to go for it.
0:01:50 > 0:01:51- CHEERING - Claire McCollum!
0:01:52 > 0:01:57OK. It is time to meet those exacting experts who have to decide
0:01:57 > 0:01:59which choir will lift the trophy.
0:01:59 > 0:02:02Firstly, someone who knows how to pick a winner.
0:02:02 > 0:02:05This is her fourth appearance as a judge on school choirs.
0:02:05 > 0:02:08She is a choir director, choir founder, choir conductor,
0:02:08 > 0:02:11who has trailblazed the revival of singing in schools
0:02:11 > 0:02:15for over two decades. Please welcome Suzi Digby!
0:02:15 > 0:02:17Thank you.
0:02:20 > 0:02:22Our next judge has several strings to her bow.
0:02:22 > 0:02:25She is an award-winning singer and songwriter who has
0:02:25 > 0:02:28appeared at the Brits, Glastonbury, Later With Jools Holland...
0:02:28 > 0:02:31Oh, and did I mention? She's a Brummie. It is Laura Mvula!
0:02:35 > 0:02:39Our last judge is someone who, whenever you think of the word choirs or choir singing,
0:02:39 > 0:02:43his name seems to automatically pop into your head.
0:02:43 > 0:02:46He certainly knows how to get the best from a choir.
0:02:46 > 0:02:48Please welcome Gareth Malone!
0:02:48 > 0:02:50CHEERING
0:02:52 > 0:02:54Welcome, judges.
0:02:55 > 0:02:58Two weeks ago, each of our junior choirs reached this stage
0:02:58 > 0:03:02of the competition by singing a hymn of their choice.
0:03:07 > 0:03:09THEY SING IN WELSH
0:03:11 > 0:03:16# Praise my soul the King of Heaven
0:03:16 > 0:03:21# To his feet thy tribute bring... #
0:03:21 > 0:03:28THEY SING IN LATIN
0:03:33 > 0:03:34So, for the final,
0:03:34 > 0:03:38our three choirs will sing their choice of inspirational song.
0:03:38 > 0:03:41Going first, Ysgol Iolo Morganwg.
0:03:57 > 0:04:01THEY SING IN WELSH
0:06:06 > 0:06:09APPLAUSE AND CHEERING
0:06:15 > 0:06:17Ysgol Iolo Morganwg!
0:06:19 > 0:06:22Suzi, obviously they are nervous - this is the final.
0:06:22 > 0:06:25They are going first. How do you think they handled the pressure?
0:06:25 > 0:06:28It is miraculous, what you do with a melody.
0:06:28 > 0:06:30It really is.
0:06:30 > 0:06:35At so many levels. I counted eight colours in your voices.
0:06:35 > 0:06:38Because sometimes I can see colours when I hear different textures in singing.
0:06:38 > 0:06:45But also, the energy and the passion in the words was just phenomenal.
0:06:45 > 0:06:48So, Gareth. Whatever the outcome,
0:06:48 > 0:06:51can Ysgol Iolo Morganwg go home happy after that performance?
0:06:51 > 0:06:53I'm going to go home happy after that performance!
0:06:53 > 0:07:00Absolutely wonderful. I love the way that you paint the words and I really commend that.
0:07:00 > 0:07:01And theatre!
0:07:01 > 0:07:06When you all held hands, I nearly had to reach my handkerchief...
0:07:06 > 0:07:08oh, I haven't got one!
0:07:08 > 0:07:12It was really beautiful. Really magical. And if this is...
0:07:12 > 0:07:14What is the School Choir Of The Year about?
0:07:14 > 0:07:16It is about voices coming together.
0:07:16 > 0:07:20One two slight moments of tuning at the beginning,
0:07:20 > 0:07:22but I would put that down to nerves.
0:07:22 > 0:07:23Laura?
0:07:23 > 0:07:27I hope you guys feel chuffed. You should really do.
0:07:27 > 0:07:30You sing so beautifully together.
0:07:30 > 0:07:33Like Gareth said, when you held hands,
0:07:33 > 0:07:35that moment was just so powerful
0:07:35 > 0:07:40and I feel like it signifies your sound, which is unity.
0:07:40 > 0:07:42You sing together as one.
0:07:42 > 0:07:46Even the moment at the end when you pull up the tempo,
0:07:46 > 0:07:52it was still marvellously together. Such a pleasure to listen to.
0:07:52 > 0:07:54Ysgol Iolo Morganwg, thank you.
0:07:54 > 0:07:57CHEERING
0:07:59 > 0:08:03- I think I am rather emotional. - Understandable.- Yes.
0:08:03 > 0:08:07They sang their hearts out. They have given me so much enjoyment today.
0:08:07 > 0:08:11- And Mrs Roberts, what is she like as a conductor?- She is amazing.
0:08:11 > 0:08:16She teaches us very good things and she will be so pleased if we win.
0:08:16 > 0:08:20- What would it mean to you to win? - It would be phenomenal.
0:08:20 > 0:08:25It is so big, it is watched all over Britain, at least.
0:08:25 > 0:08:27CHILDREN CHEER
0:08:27 > 0:08:31Our next junior choir finalists are from Huddersfield in Yorkshire.
0:08:31 > 0:08:33It is Lindley Junior School.
0:08:40 > 0:08:43# Take a look around you
0:08:43 > 0:08:47# Tell me what you see
0:08:47 > 0:08:50# People here to worship the Lord
0:08:50 > 0:08:53# Just like you and me
0:08:53 > 0:08:57# Some have come in gladness
0:08:57 > 0:09:00# Some have come with fear
0:09:00 > 0:09:07# But all have come because they know that love
0:09:07 > 0:09:11# Grows here
0:09:11 > 0:09:15# Yes, love grows here
0:09:15 > 0:09:18# And all of us can share
0:09:18 > 0:09:25# The wonder and joy that it can bring
0:09:25 > 0:09:32# For God is near, teaching us to care
0:09:32 > 0:09:38# And showing our hearts how to sing
0:09:43 > 0:09:47# Some of us are lonely
0:09:47 > 0:09:50# Some have many friends
0:09:50 > 0:09:54# For some, life is just beginning
0:09:54 > 0:09:57# Some are near the end
0:09:57 > 0:10:01# Yet we come together
0:10:01 > 0:10:04# Knowing he is near
0:10:04 > 0:10:11# Once again reminding us that love
0:10:11 > 0:10:15# Grows here
0:10:15 > 0:10:19# Yes, love grows here
0:10:19 > 0:10:22# And all of us can share
0:10:22 > 0:10:29# The wonder and joy that it can bring
0:10:29 > 0:10:33# For God is near
0:10:33 > 0:10:36# Teaching us to care
0:10:36 > 0:10:43# And showing our hearts how to sing
0:10:43 > 0:10:50# Yes, love grows here
0:10:50 > 0:10:53# Yes, love
0:10:53 > 0:10:54# Yes, love
0:10:54 > 0:11:00# Grows here. #
0:11:00 > 0:11:04APPLAUSE AND CHEERING
0:11:09 > 0:11:13Lindley Junior School, everybody.
0:11:15 > 0:11:19- Laura, one song, one chance to get it right.- Absolutely.
0:11:19 > 0:11:21I really enjoyed your harmonies.
0:11:21 > 0:11:23Beautifully sung, even though
0:11:23 > 0:11:27there were moments where I thought you were singing a little bright,
0:11:27 > 0:11:30but I think that comes with the excitement of the occasion.
0:11:30 > 0:11:32You know, wanting to burst with it.
0:11:32 > 0:11:38Um...I loved all the crescendos in the moments where you were singing
0:11:38 > 0:11:42the word "grow" and I felt you growing. You were working so hard.
0:11:42 > 0:11:43Really well done.
0:11:43 > 0:11:48- Suzi? Have Lindley made your decision harder?- Yes.
0:11:48 > 0:11:52And what I really loved was the way the singers
0:11:52 > 0:11:55activated their bodies before they started singing.
0:11:55 > 0:11:59So it was a whole body activity, which singing is.
0:11:59 > 0:12:03It is not just from the neck up. And it was so elastic.
0:12:03 > 0:12:05You know, within one word, you were going to
0:12:05 > 0:12:09so many different places, but always appropriate to what that word
0:12:09 > 0:12:11was meaning in the context of the line.
0:12:11 > 0:12:15- I loved it, I really love your singing.- Gareth?
0:12:15 > 0:12:19I thought it was fabulous. That woman is a magician.
0:12:19 > 0:12:22Really, really well done! Excellent.
0:12:22 > 0:12:24CHEERING
0:12:24 > 0:12:27I just thought it was... As in the semifinals,
0:12:27 > 0:12:33I remember you produced sparkling text. And words are everything.
0:12:33 > 0:12:35Everybody gets very excited about the music
0:12:35 > 0:12:37as if text isn't part of the music.
0:12:37 > 0:12:39And you really paid attention to that.
0:12:39 > 0:12:40So very well done on that.
0:12:40 > 0:12:44And I thought the balance across the whole choir was mostly fantastic,
0:12:44 > 0:12:46especially in the unison sections.
0:12:46 > 0:12:50And you obviously trust your conductor, which is lovely to see.
0:12:50 > 0:12:52You should keep believing your conductor.
0:12:52 > 0:12:56When your conductor says, do it like this, she's probably right.
0:12:57 > 0:12:59Thank you, Lindley.
0:12:59 > 0:13:02CHEERING
0:13:02 > 0:13:04I thought we did really well.
0:13:04 > 0:13:08We gave our best shot, so it is down to the judges to decide.
0:13:08 > 0:13:10- How do you think they did? - They did superbly.
0:13:10 > 0:13:15I am really pleased with the performance. Whatever happens now, the comments were fantastic
0:13:15 > 0:13:18and they have risen to the occasion, so I am delighted.
0:13:18 > 0:13:21Our third and final choir in the junior competition final,
0:13:21 > 0:13:26performing their inspirational song, is Llangennech Junior School from Llanelli!
0:13:29 > 0:13:32THEY SING IN WELSH
0:16:09 > 0:16:13CHEERING
0:16:19 > 0:16:20Llangennech Junior School!
0:16:24 > 0:16:28Suzi. Little voices on a big stage. Did they cut through for you?
0:16:28 > 0:16:34I think it's amazing. There is passion and precision in music.
0:16:34 > 0:16:38So I would say that sometimes the passion compromised the precision
0:16:38 > 0:16:42a little and that if there is a way that you can continue to
0:16:42 > 0:16:47develop this choir so that that passion is still communicated,
0:16:47 > 0:16:52but get even more precision in your performance, it would be wonderful.
0:16:52 > 0:16:56Laura, did Llangennech finish the junior final on a high?
0:16:56 > 0:17:02On such a big high. What an energetic and joyous performance!
0:17:02 > 0:17:04And it was such a journey of a piece.
0:17:04 > 0:17:07To be able to sustain yourselves to the end
0:17:07 > 0:17:10and have a triumphal moment at the end, was great.
0:17:10 > 0:17:12I think you should be really proud of the performance.
0:17:12 > 0:17:14I thought it was wonderful.
0:17:14 > 0:17:18Gareth, have Llangennech given themselves a chance with that performance?
0:17:18 > 0:17:21There is so much to say about such a wonderful performance.
0:17:21 > 0:17:23Such an exciting performance.
0:17:23 > 0:17:25And I think you produced one of the most exciting
0:17:25 > 0:17:27moments of the competition for me,
0:17:27 > 0:17:31with your fantastic big crescendo and then suddenly coming down.
0:17:31 > 0:17:34So it was a great choice of piece from that point of view.
0:17:34 > 0:17:37I felt at times that the singing wasn't quite muscular enough and
0:17:37 > 0:17:42developed enough yet to be totally on top of such a technically difficult piece.
0:17:42 > 0:17:43It was a technical feat.
0:17:43 > 0:17:45But for me, as a lover of choral music, to see so much passion
0:17:45 > 0:17:48and excitement in your faces has been really,
0:17:48 > 0:17:50really heart-warming and wonderful.
0:17:50 > 0:17:53- So tremendous.- Thank you, Llangennech.
0:17:53 > 0:17:56CHEERING
0:17:57 > 0:18:00They performed their socks off this time once more
0:18:00 > 0:18:03and they have really put themselves in a good position now.
0:18:03 > 0:18:07We were really nervous, but when we got there, we calmed down a bit.
0:18:07 > 0:18:10They are also happy to have made the final, so whatever happens now, happens.
0:18:10 > 0:18:14Don't forget, our three senior school finalists are still to come.
0:18:14 > 0:18:17But for now, our judges have left the hall to decide which
0:18:17 > 0:18:20junior school choir will take the trophy.
0:18:20 > 0:18:23Whilst they do, if you haven't chosen a favourite yourself,
0:18:23 > 0:18:27here is a quick reminder of all three junior choir performances.
0:18:27 > 0:18:29THEY SING: "Cydiwn Ddwylo"
0:18:37 > 0:18:40For me, it was very simple. Like a love at first sight thing.
0:18:40 > 0:18:43- As soon as they started singing, I was like, OK.- Yeah.
0:18:45 > 0:18:49To fault them is almost sort of...
0:18:49 > 0:18:52- It seems nit-picky, doesn't it? - It's a bit cheeky.- Yeah.
0:18:54 > 0:18:56I hate to say they did go slightly out of tune.
0:18:56 > 0:18:58At one point, near the beginning.
0:18:58 > 0:19:02It came back very quickly, but it wasn't absolutely perfect.
0:19:02 > 0:19:05# Some have come in gladness
0:19:05 > 0:19:08# Some have come with fear... #
0:19:08 > 0:19:12The kids are just kind of electrified, in a good way.
0:19:14 > 0:19:18If they could start working on finer and finer detail,
0:19:18 > 0:19:20they could bring their performance...
0:19:20 > 0:19:22- To another level.- ..to another level.
0:19:22 > 0:19:25But there's such intelligence in the preparation, it is
0:19:25 > 0:19:28really thoughtful, intelligent singing.
0:19:28 > 0:19:31THEY SING IN WELSH: "O What A Wonderful Scene"
0:19:31 > 0:19:36The whole thing was so full of energy and they meant everything.
0:19:36 > 0:19:40There was a real sense of - this is important to us.
0:19:40 > 0:19:42Isn't it interesting, how the
0:19:42 > 0:19:45second piece completes the picture in some way?
0:19:45 > 0:19:47- Yes, it does.- Both the potential and the shortcomings.
0:19:49 > 0:19:52And it freshens you up, doesn't it, to see young people singing like that.
0:19:52 > 0:19:55It makes you feel good about the world.
0:19:55 > 0:19:57OK, our choirs are back on stage,
0:19:57 > 0:20:01our judges have returned with their decision,
0:20:01 > 0:20:03and Gareth has the trophy, but not for long.
0:20:03 > 0:20:06Which choir's going to take it home?
0:20:06 > 0:20:09OK, Suzi, please tell us what we all want to know.
0:20:11 > 0:20:17The winner of the Songs Of Praise Junior School Choir Of The Year is...
0:20:19 > 0:20:21..is Ysgol Iolo Morganwg.
0:20:21 > 0:20:23CHEERING
0:20:26 > 0:20:28Congratulations.
0:20:34 > 0:20:38- Very, very well done. Congratulations.- Thank you.
0:20:38 > 0:20:41Well done. Here is your justly deserved trophy.
0:20:43 > 0:20:45So, what does it feel like to win?
0:20:48 > 0:20:50Absolutely amazing. Absolutely amazing.
0:20:50 > 0:20:51I'm so proud of the children
0:20:51 > 0:20:55and I want to thank them so much from the bottom of my heart.
0:20:55 > 0:20:57They have worked so hard for weeks for this,
0:20:57 > 0:21:00and I'd like to congratulate the other two schools as well
0:21:00 > 0:21:03for being there with us as well.
0:21:03 > 0:21:05We're all winners.
0:21:06 > 0:21:08Ysgol Iolo Morganwg!
0:21:10 > 0:21:12Wow, that was amazing,
0:21:12 > 0:21:15and we're only at the halfway point, so don't go away.
0:21:15 > 0:21:18We've got our three senior choir finalists waiting in the wings
0:21:18 > 0:21:20and, believe me, they're worth waiting for.
0:21:20 > 0:21:23Here's a reminder of how they got to the final.
0:21:23 > 0:21:30# For thine is the kingdom
0:21:30 > 0:21:32# And the power
0:21:32 > 0:21:37# And the glory... #
0:21:37 > 0:21:41# His dying crimson
0:21:41 > 0:21:45# Like a robe
0:21:45 > 0:21:49# Spreads o'er his body
0:21:49 > 0:21:52# On the tree... #
0:21:52 > 0:21:59# It is a thing most wonderful
0:21:59 > 0:22:07# Almost too wonderful to be... #
0:22:07 > 0:22:11Please welcome, from London, Highgate School.
0:22:11 > 0:22:13CHEERING
0:22:14 > 0:22:17From Kent, Rochester Grammar School.
0:22:17 > 0:22:20CHEERING
0:22:20 > 0:22:23And Cantabile, from Hereford Cathedral School.
0:22:23 > 0:22:24CHEERING
0:22:26 > 0:22:29Getting us under way are Highgate School from London.
0:22:31 > 0:22:34# Joshua fit the battle The battle of Jericho
0:22:34 > 0:22:37# Joshua fit the battle The battle of Jericho
0:22:37 > 0:22:40# Joshua fit the battle of Jericho
0:22:40 > 0:22:43# Jericho, Jericho
0:22:43 > 0:22:45# Joshua fit the battle of Jericho
0:22:45 > 0:22:48# And the walls come tumbling down
0:22:48 > 0:22:50# Joshua fit the battle The battle of Jericho
0:22:50 > 0:22:53# Joshua fit the battle The battle of Jericho
0:22:53 > 0:22:56# Joshua fit the battle of Jericho
0:22:56 > 0:22:59# Jericho, Jericho
0:22:59 > 0:23:01# Joshua fit the battle of Jericho
0:23:01 > 0:23:03# And the walls come tumbling down
0:23:03 > 0:23:05# Joshua fit the battle The battle of Jericho
0:23:05 > 0:23:08# Joshua fit the battle The battle of Jericho
0:23:08 > 0:23:10# Talk about your kings of Gideon
0:23:10 > 0:23:13- # Go on, you can talk about - Talk about the men of Saul
0:23:13 > 0:23:16- # Go on, yes, you can talk about them - But none like good old Joshua
0:23:16 > 0:23:18# At the battle of Jericho
0:23:18 > 0:23:20# That morning
0:23:20 > 0:23:22# Joshua fit the battle of Jericho
0:23:22 > 0:23:25# Jericho, Jericho
0:23:25 > 0:23:27# Joshua fit the battle of Jericho
0:23:27 > 0:23:30# And the walls come tumbling down
0:23:30 > 0:23:32# Joshua fit the battle The battle of Jericho
0:23:32 > 0:23:35# Joshua fit the battle The battle of Jericho
0:23:35 > 0:23:37- # Ride out to the walls of Jericho - Jericho
0:23:37 > 0:23:39# He marched with spear in hand
0:23:39 > 0:23:43- # Blow... - Go blow that ram horn, Joshua cried
0:23:43 > 0:23:46# The battle is in my hands God Almighty
0:23:46 > 0:23:49# Then the lamb ram sheep horn begins to blow
0:23:49 > 0:23:52# And the trumpet begins to sound
0:23:52 > 0:23:54# Joshua a challenge did shout
0:23:54 > 0:23:58# And the walls come a-tumbling down Oh, Lord, you know that
0:23:58 > 0:23:59- # Joshua - Fit the battle
0:23:59 > 0:24:00- # Battle - Battle of Jericho
0:24:00 > 0:24:02- # He fit the battle - He fit the battle
0:24:02 > 0:24:03- # Battle - Battle of Jericho
0:24:03 > 0:24:05- # He fit the battle - He fit the battle
0:24:05 > 0:24:06- # Battle - Battle of Jericho
0:24:06 > 0:24:08- # The walls come - A-tumbling down
0:24:08 > 0:24:09# Oh, Lord, you know that
0:24:09 > 0:24:10- # Joshua - Fit the battle
0:24:10 > 0:24:12- # Battle of Jericho - He fit the battle
0:24:12 > 0:24:13- # Fit the battle - Battle
0:24:13 > 0:24:15- # Battle of Jericho - He fit the battle
0:24:15 > 0:24:16- # He fit the battle - Battle
0:24:16 > 0:24:19# Battle of Jericho
0:24:19 > 0:24:23# The walls
0:24:23 > 0:24:28# Come tumbling
0:24:29 > 0:24:36# Down. #
0:24:38 > 0:24:40CHEERING AND APPLAUSE
0:24:46 > 0:24:48Thank you, Highgate School.
0:24:51 > 0:24:54Suzi, have Highgate demonstrated why they're in the final?
0:24:54 > 0:24:56They sure have. It was fan...
0:24:56 > 0:24:59It was wonderful, and it brought a new energy to the competition.
0:24:59 > 0:25:02It achieved what I presume you meant it to achieve,
0:25:02 > 0:25:05which was to get the spirit of that gospel number across,
0:25:05 > 0:25:07and it's a fantastic arrangement.
0:25:07 > 0:25:10Tenors a little bit drained occasionally
0:25:10 > 0:25:12when you're singing high and loud,
0:25:12 > 0:25:15but I would say it was the right repertoire choice
0:25:15 > 0:25:17and you did a fantastic job of it.
0:25:17 > 0:25:21- Gareth?- I thought that was very impressive in many ways.
0:25:21 > 0:25:24It was very together, rhythmically it was very exciting.
0:25:24 > 0:25:26I think we all just, you know...
0:25:26 > 0:25:28I wanted to get up and join you, or even dance,
0:25:28 > 0:25:31which would have been a mistake.
0:25:31 > 0:25:33So, well done to that, and well done, tenors,
0:25:33 > 0:25:35for contending with a difficult line.
0:25:35 > 0:25:38And I think it exposes the problem for the whole choir with this piece,
0:25:38 > 0:25:42which is that you have to fully enter the world of the spiritual,
0:25:42 > 0:25:44and I felt at times,
0:25:44 > 0:25:48by going for the lightness of rhythmical touch, we lost in the...
0:25:48 > 0:25:50# Dahh daah-da-da-da. # It turned...
0:25:50 > 0:25:53It turned into something a little too light at times,
0:25:53 > 0:25:56which then gave you vocal problems as it went up in the range.
0:25:56 > 0:25:59- Laura? - Beautifully, beautifully sung.
0:25:59 > 0:26:01I felt like the basses and the tenors
0:26:01 > 0:26:04really kind of held it down for everyone.
0:26:04 > 0:26:05You were the anchor.
0:26:05 > 0:26:09I felt like I was listening to a five-piece funk band
0:26:09 > 0:26:11just kind of hold down an amazing groove.
0:26:11 > 0:26:14You just owned the whole arrangement.
0:26:14 > 0:26:17That's sometimes difficult to do with songs that are more up-tempo,
0:26:17 > 0:26:19so well done.
0:26:19 > 0:26:20CHEERING AND APPLAUSE
0:26:20 > 0:26:22Thank you, Highgate School.
0:26:28 > 0:26:31- Emma, you said if they sang at their best, then they would win.- Yes.
0:26:31 > 0:26:33Did they do that?
0:26:33 > 0:26:37I think so, but obviously we went first,
0:26:37 > 0:26:40so it's really hard to judge what the other two are going to do.
0:26:40 > 0:26:43I'm feeling very optimistic, because we really enjoyed ourselves.
0:26:43 > 0:26:45We want to win, basically.
0:26:45 > 0:26:49Our next school choir, from Kent, it's Rochester Grammar School.
0:26:55 > 0:26:58# I'm climbin' up the mountain Children
0:26:58 > 0:27:00# Gotta reach my heavenly home
0:27:01 > 0:27:05- # I'm climbin' up and working harder - Yes, harder
0:27:05 > 0:27:07# Lord, don't ever leave me alone
0:27:07 > 0:27:09- # Can't you see I'm trying - Oh, yeah?
0:27:09 > 0:27:11- # To make it each day? - I know
0:27:11 > 0:27:14# Even though trials pass my way
0:27:14 > 0:27:19# I'm gonna keep on climbin' up the mountain till I make it on home
0:27:22 > 0:27:24# Oh, brother, won't you help me?
0:27:24 > 0:27:26# Cos the road is rough
0:27:26 > 0:27:29# The mountain is steep and the going gets tough
0:27:29 > 0:27:32# But when I see him face to face
0:27:32 > 0:27:35# I'm gonna shout all over the place
0:27:35 > 0:27:38# I'm climbin' up the mountain Children
0:27:38 > 0:27:40# Gotta reach my heavenly home
0:27:41 > 0:27:45- # I'm climbin' up and working harder - Yes, harder
0:27:45 > 0:27:47# Lord, don't ever leave me alone
0:27:47 > 0:27:49- # Can't you see I'm trying - Oh, yeah?
0:27:49 > 0:27:51- # To make it each day? - I know
0:27:51 > 0:27:54# Even though trials pass my way
0:27:54 > 0:28:00# I'm gonna keep on climbin' up the mountain till I make it on home
0:28:02 > 0:28:05# Oh, sister, won't you help me
0:28:05 > 0:28:06# To carry the load
0:28:06 > 0:28:09# Over the hard and rocky road?
0:28:09 > 0:28:12# When I arrive He'll wipe my tears away
0:28:12 > 0:28:15# It's gonna be a happy day
0:28:15 > 0:28:17# A happy day
0:28:17 > 0:28:20# I'm climbin' up the mountain Children
0:28:20 > 0:28:22# Gotta reach my heavenly home
0:28:23 > 0:28:26- # I'm climbin' up and working harder - Yes, harder
0:28:26 > 0:28:29# Lord, don't ever leave me alone
0:28:29 > 0:28:31- # Can't you see I'm trying - Oh, yeah?
0:28:31 > 0:28:33- # To make it each day? - I know
0:28:33 > 0:28:35# Even though trials pass my way
0:28:35 > 0:28:41# I'm gonna keep on climbin' up the mountain till I make it on home
0:28:42 > 0:28:48# I'm gonna keep on climbin' up the mountain till I make it on home
0:28:48 > 0:28:51# I'm gonna keep on climbin' up the mountain
0:28:51 > 0:28:55# Till I make it on...
0:28:55 > 0:29:01# Home. #
0:29:01 > 0:29:03CHEERING AND APPLAUSE
0:29:10 > 0:29:12Rochester Grammar School.
0:29:12 > 0:29:14CHEERING AND APPLAUSE
0:29:16 > 0:29:19- So, Laura, what do you make of that performance?- Fabulous.
0:29:19 > 0:29:23I really love the spoken parts and the little...the choreography.
0:29:23 > 0:29:24Really, really cool.
0:29:24 > 0:29:27When you guys sing in three parts, it's like the perfect blend.
0:29:27 > 0:29:31Your tone is really open and beautiful and rich.
0:29:31 > 0:29:32I wondered whether what would happen
0:29:32 > 0:29:35if you let your hair down just a little bit more.
0:29:35 > 0:29:38Sometimes I felt like this is the kind of song that you need
0:29:38 > 0:29:41just a little bit more energy, but that's just like a minor point.
0:29:41 > 0:29:47For me, the whole thing was fabulous and bluesy and rocking. Great.
0:29:47 > 0:29:51- Gareth?- Just really good technical execution.
0:29:51 > 0:29:52It was all really well together,
0:29:52 > 0:29:55the tuning was good, the timing was good.
0:29:55 > 0:29:59There was this nice, light vocal quality that you have as a choir,
0:29:59 > 0:30:02which you brought to your piece in the semifinal as well,
0:30:02 > 0:30:04and I think deployed well here.
0:30:04 > 0:30:07Very impressive choir singing from those top sopranos.
0:30:07 > 0:30:10You manage that really well and didn't lose any pitches.
0:30:10 > 0:30:13It was good and exciting, that bit at the end.
0:30:13 > 0:30:15I thought it was a good style,
0:30:15 > 0:30:18but I could have just used a little bit more grit.
0:30:18 > 0:30:21Suzi, were you inspired by Rochester's inspirational performance?
0:30:21 > 0:30:23Yes, I was.
0:30:23 > 0:30:25You'd be hard pushed to find a choir
0:30:25 > 0:30:28that is more immaculately prepared than this one.
0:30:28 > 0:30:31In a piece like this, I think it's quite important for us as audience
0:30:31 > 0:30:34to feel there is the possibility of something,
0:30:34 > 0:30:38some spontaneous element, and I know that's almost incompatible
0:30:38 > 0:30:41when you have technically everything so perfectly in place,
0:30:41 > 0:30:45so if I absolutely had to be critical, I would say that.
0:30:45 > 0:30:47You want to feel there's a spontaneous response,
0:30:47 > 0:30:51rather than a drilled response musically to what's happening.
0:30:51 > 0:30:53But congratulations.
0:30:53 > 0:30:55Thank you, Rochester Grammar School.
0:30:58 > 0:31:02They gave their very, very best, which is all I ask of them, really.
0:31:02 > 0:31:05Once we got through to the final, we were all really buzzing
0:31:05 > 0:31:07because, you know, you suddenly realise there's a chance.
0:31:07 > 0:31:12- What would it mean to take the title home?- It would be unbelievable.
0:31:12 > 0:31:15- It would be.- Can you think about that at this stage?- No! No.
0:31:17 > 0:31:19Our next, and last, choir in the competition
0:31:19 > 0:31:23are Cantabile from Hereford Cathedral School.
0:31:24 > 0:31:27- # I got a robe - I got a robe
0:31:27 > 0:31:29# I got a robe We got a robe
0:31:29 > 0:31:31# All God's children got a robe
0:31:31 > 0:31:34# When I get to heaven Gonna put on my robe
0:31:34 > 0:31:36# I'm gonna walk all over God's heaven
0:31:36 > 0:31:39# Heaven, heaven
0:31:39 > 0:31:42# Everybody's talking 'bout heaven Ain't you going there
0:31:42 > 0:31:44# Heaven, heaven
0:31:44 > 0:31:46# Gonna walk all over God's heav'n
0:31:46 > 0:31:49# I got shoes, you got shoes
0:31:49 > 0:31:51# All God's children got shoes
0:31:51 > 0:31:53# When I get to heaven Gonna put on my shoes
0:31:53 > 0:31:56# I'm gonna walk all over God's heaven
0:31:56 > 0:31:59# Heaven Gonna walk all over God's heav'n
0:32:03 > 0:32:05# Swing low, sweet chariot
0:32:05 > 0:32:08# Comin' for to carry me home
0:32:08 > 0:32:10# When I get to heaven Gonna put on my crown
0:32:10 > 0:32:13# I'm gonna walk all over God's heaven
0:32:13 > 0:32:15# Heaven, heaven
0:32:15 > 0:32:18# Everybody's talking 'bout heaven Ain't you going there
0:32:18 > 0:32:20# Heaven, heaven
0:32:20 > 0:32:22# Gonna walk all over God's heav'n
0:32:25 > 0:32:28# I got a song
0:32:28 > 0:32:33# You got a song
0:32:33 > 0:32:41# All God's children got a song
0:32:41 > 0:32:43# When I get to heaven Gonna sing a new song
0:32:43 > 0:32:46# About heaven, heaven
0:32:46 > 0:32:48# Heaven, heaven
0:32:48 > 0:32:50# Walk all over God's heav'n
0:32:50 > 0:32:52- # O when the saints - O when the saints
0:32:52 > 0:32:55- # Go marching in - Go marching in
0:32:55 > 0:32:59# I'm gonna walk all over God's heaven, heaven
0:32:59 > 0:33:01# I got a robe up in that kingdom
0:33:01 > 0:33:03# I got shoes up in that kingdom
0:33:03 > 0:33:05# I got a crown up in that kingdom
0:33:05 > 0:33:07# Ain't that good news?
0:33:07 > 0:33:10# I'm gonna walk all over
0:33:10 > 0:33:16# God's heav'n. #
0:33:16 > 0:33:18CHEERING AND APPLAUSE
0:33:30 > 0:33:34Thank you, Cantabile, from Hereford Cathedral School!
0:33:34 > 0:33:36Susie, if Cantabile were your choir,
0:33:36 > 0:33:38would you be pleased?
0:33:38 > 0:33:43Of course I would. I'd be thrilled. And it was full of life and sparkle,
0:33:43 > 0:33:44which I really enjoyed.
0:33:44 > 0:33:49Contrary to the discussion we were having before, I felt that,
0:33:49 > 0:33:52in some ways, because you have got these wonderful voices,
0:33:52 > 0:33:54it needed a little bit more control.
0:33:54 > 0:33:57It just felt a little bit unbridled
0:33:57 > 0:34:00and, sometimes, a bit over-excited. And that can
0:34:00 > 0:34:03result in the sopranos pushing the sharp a little.
0:34:03 > 0:34:05But I really enjoyed it. Thank you.
0:34:05 > 0:34:06Gareth.
0:34:06 > 0:34:10It's a very difficult decision that we have to make,
0:34:10 > 0:34:12because I thought you had some magic moments of harmony
0:34:12 > 0:34:15and you displayed your technical brilliance, at moments.
0:34:15 > 0:34:18I saw the energy and I felt the excitement
0:34:18 > 0:34:22and beautiful "oohs" under the solo. That was really lovely.
0:34:22 > 0:34:26There was... Was I convinced, stylistically? Did it feel like
0:34:26 > 0:34:29a spiritual all the time? I am not quite sure that you quite
0:34:29 > 0:34:31- got there, for me.- Laura.
0:34:31 > 0:34:34I think that was a really great performance
0:34:34 > 0:34:39and I hope you will be proud of that, cos I would be.
0:34:39 > 0:34:41I think I would agree with Gareth -
0:34:41 > 0:34:46I'm not sure about the arrangement, as a spiritual.
0:34:46 > 0:34:48But then, having said that,
0:34:48 > 0:34:52you made a really exciting sound and the way you, sort of, were all
0:34:52 > 0:34:56leaning in at parts, I was leaning in also, with you.
0:34:56 > 0:34:59And when you sang "heaven", I was thinking, "heaven", you know.
0:34:59 > 0:35:04So, yeah, I think it was great and I think you should be really proud.
0:35:04 > 0:35:07Thank you. Cantabile, from Hereford Cathedral School!
0:35:07 > 0:35:08CHEERING AND APPLAUSE
0:35:11 > 0:35:13I think we did quite well, actually.
0:35:13 > 0:35:15It was really energetic and the judges seemed to like it.
0:35:15 > 0:35:18They said they didn't really like our arrangement of the piece, but we did,
0:35:18 > 0:35:22- so, hopefully, that's good enough! - They sung extremely well.
0:35:22 > 0:35:24I'm very pleased with them, I really am.
0:35:24 > 0:35:26I'll take criticism.
0:35:26 > 0:35:29As long as it's constructive and not destructive, I'm happy.
0:35:30 > 0:35:33OK, the reason I am here is that I want to join with Suzi
0:35:33 > 0:35:35and the rest of the audience
0:35:35 > 0:35:37in witnessing a very special performance
0:35:37 > 0:35:39before our winning choir is chosen.
0:35:39 > 0:35:42Normally, we don't ask our judges to perform, but this time,
0:35:42 > 0:35:45we just couldn't resist. Ladies and gentlemen,
0:35:45 > 0:35:49singing We Shall Overcome, it's Gareth Malone's Voices Choir
0:35:49 > 0:35:50and Laura Mvula.
0:35:52 > 0:35:55HUMMING
0:36:11 > 0:36:15# We shall overcome
0:36:16 > 0:36:19# We shall overcome
0:36:21 > 0:36:25# We shall overcome
0:36:25 > 0:36:29# Some day
0:36:31 > 0:36:35# Deep in my heart
0:36:37 > 0:36:40# I do believe
0:36:40 > 0:36:44# That we shall overcome
0:36:44 > 0:36:48# Some day
0:36:49 > 0:36:51# Oh-oh, oh
0:36:51 > 0:36:55# We'll walk hand in hand
0:36:56 > 0:37:00# We'll walk hand in hand
0:37:00 > 0:37:04# We'll walk hand in hand
0:37:04 > 0:37:09# Some day
0:37:09 > 0:37:11# Oh-oh, oh
0:37:11 > 0:37:16# Deep in my heart
0:37:16 > 0:37:19# I do believe
0:37:19 > 0:37:24# That we'll walk hand in hand
0:37:24 > 0:37:28# Some day
0:37:28 > 0:37:33# We shall all be free
0:37:33 > 0:37:37# We shall all be free
0:37:38 > 0:37:42# We shall all be free
0:37:42 > 0:37:46# Some day
0:37:48 > 0:37:53# Deep in my heart
0:37:54 > 0:37:58# I do believe
0:37:58 > 0:38:02# That we shall overcome
0:38:03 > 0:38:07# We shall overcome
0:38:08 > 0:38:16# We shall overcome some day
0:38:16 > 0:38:21# Deep in my heart
0:38:21 > 0:38:25# I do believe
0:38:25 > 0:38:30# That we shall overcome
0:38:30 > 0:38:36# We shall overcome
0:38:36 > 0:38:41# We shall overcome
0:38:41 > 0:38:47# Some day. #
0:38:49 > 0:38:53APPLAUSE AND CHEERING
0:38:58 > 0:39:02Ladies and gentlemen, Laura Mvula and Gareth Malone's Voices.
0:39:02 > 0:39:04How brilliant was that?
0:39:04 > 0:39:06Talking of brilliant, have you made your mind up
0:39:06 > 0:39:09which of our senior choirs is your favourite?
0:39:09 > 0:39:12Whilst our judges head off to decide on their top choice,
0:39:12 > 0:39:17here's a reminder of all three choirs' inspirational performances.
0:39:17 > 0:39:20# Joshua fit the battle of Jericho
0:39:20 > 0:39:22# Jericho, Jericho
0:39:22 > 0:39:25# Joshua fit the battle of Jericho
0:39:25 > 0:39:27# And the walls come tumbling down... #
0:39:27 > 0:39:31I loved this performance so much from the very beginning to the end.
0:39:31 > 0:39:35They're so intelligent in their choice of repertoire
0:39:35 > 0:39:37to bring out the best
0:39:37 > 0:39:40- and it was a very honest performance. - Yeah.
0:39:40 > 0:39:42# ..At the battle of Jericho... #
0:39:42 > 0:39:45My criticism of them was that there wasn't always that richness of tone.
0:39:45 > 0:39:48They're young voices, so that's inevitable.
0:39:48 > 0:39:49# ..Jericho... #
0:39:49 > 0:39:52I really believed it, and that's so important with spirituals,
0:39:52 > 0:39:54it's important to me, anyway.
0:39:54 > 0:39:57# I'm climbing up the mountain, children
0:39:57 > 0:40:00# Got to reach my heavenly home
0:40:01 > 0:40:04# I'm climbing up I'm working harder... #
0:40:04 > 0:40:07On the one hand, it is absolutely immaculate.
0:40:07 > 0:40:12- Pristine.- And on the other hand, it's too controlled.
0:40:12 > 0:40:15# I'm going to keep on climbing up the mountain
0:40:15 > 0:40:17# Till I make it on home... #
0:40:17 > 0:40:21Very technically able, and I think they have immense talent
0:40:21 > 0:40:24and immense potential as young singers.
0:40:24 > 0:40:26# ..As the road is rough The mountain is deep... #
0:40:26 > 0:40:31You're right, it's so immaculate and they're so beautiful to listen to,
0:40:31 > 0:40:34um, I'm reluctant to complain.
0:40:34 > 0:40:36# When I get to heaven I'm going to put on my robe
0:40:36 > 0:40:39# I'm going to walk all over God's heaven
0:40:39 > 0:40:42# Heaven, heaven Everybody's talking about... #
0:40:42 > 0:40:45Hereford were very technically together.
0:40:45 > 0:40:49There were some moments where those harmonies were absolutely fantastic.
0:40:49 > 0:40:52# We're going to shout Yes, we're going to shout... #
0:40:52 > 0:40:56I feel bad because I feel like the arrangement was just...
0:40:56 > 0:41:01so separate to what I know as spiritual music.
0:41:01 > 0:41:03# Swing low, sweet chariot... #
0:41:03 > 0:41:06- What a wonderful group of young singers.- Great.
0:41:06 > 0:41:08APPLAUSE
0:41:08 > 0:41:12OK, our judges, the only three people who know the identity
0:41:12 > 0:41:14of the winning choir are back.
0:41:14 > 0:41:16And we all await their decision.
0:41:16 > 0:41:19Laura has the trophy ready to present,
0:41:19 > 0:41:21and one of these three brilliant choirs
0:41:21 > 0:41:23is about to receive it.
0:41:23 > 0:41:27OK, Gareth, put us out of our misery.
0:41:27 > 0:41:31- Can you reveal the name of the winning choir?- I can.
0:41:31 > 0:41:36The Songs Of Praise Senior School Choir of the Year for 2014 is...
0:41:37 > 0:41:39..Highgate School.
0:41:39 > 0:41:41CHEERING
0:41:54 > 0:41:56Very well done.
0:42:01 > 0:42:06Congratulations. How do you feel about winning?
0:42:06 > 0:42:08Pretty happy, yeah.
0:42:08 > 0:42:10And they are amazing, so...yeah.
0:42:10 > 0:42:14How do you feel, as one of the members of the choir?
0:42:14 > 0:42:16Um, quite surreal, really!
0:42:16 > 0:42:19I...I don't know what I was expecting
0:42:19 > 0:42:22when I came here today, but this is amazing.
0:42:22 > 0:42:24At what point did you stop feeling nervous
0:42:24 > 0:42:26and start thinking "we can win this"?
0:42:26 > 0:42:28Not till just now, probably.
0:42:28 > 0:42:33Ladies and gentlemen, our winning choir, Highgate School!
0:42:33 > 0:42:35CHEERING AND APPLAUSE
0:42:42 > 0:42:44Our congratulations to Highgate School,
0:42:44 > 0:42:46our Senior School Choir of the Year.
0:42:46 > 0:42:50And thanks to our runners-up, Rochester Grammar School
0:42:50 > 0:42:52and Cantabile from Hereford Cathedral School
0:42:52 > 0:42:54for making it such a close final.
0:42:56 > 0:42:59If you'd like to enter the 2015 competition,
0:42:59 > 0:43:03or you know a choir that would, let us know at the address on screen.
0:43:03 > 0:43:07My thanks to Suzi Digby, Laura Mvula, Gareth Malone
0:43:07 > 0:43:10and his Voices Choir, and especially to all the choirs today
0:43:10 > 0:43:13and to you for watching. We hope you enjoyed it.
0:43:13 > 0:43:15From Birmingham, goodbye!
0:43:15 > 0:43:18CHEERING AND APPLAUSE
0:43:19 > 0:43:21Next week, Aled's in Yorkshire
0:43:21 > 0:43:24to meet one of Britain's most popular singers,
0:43:24 > 0:43:27the Doncaster diva, Lesley Garrett,
0:43:27 > 0:43:29who talks about her life and faith
0:43:29 > 0:43:33and leads the congregation in singing her favourite hymns.