Camden Music exists to share the joy of music with young people, and our 2026 Primary Choir Festival was a brilliant example of that in action.
Across three evenings from 27 to 29 April, more than 900 pupils aged 7–16 took to the stage, representing over 30 Camden schools. Each night brought a vibrant mix of massed choir performances and individual school presentations, celebrating the breadth and energy of singing across the borough.
More than forty young musicians joined us at the Crowndale Centre, where they enjoyed taster sessions on guitar, trumpet, clarinet, flute, violin and cello. Our instrumental tutors led short, friendly taster lessons, helping pupils understand how each instrument works and what early learning feels like.
Now in its 12th year, since beginning in 2003, the Primary Choir Festival has become a much-loved part of Camden’s musical life, bringing schools together and giving young singers the chance to perform in a truly special setting.
Singing together
Each concert featured five massed songs, performed by all pupils combined. The programme reflected a wide range of styles and influences:
- Us by Russell Hepplewhite and Michael Rosen, from the Britten Pears Arts Friday Afternoons project, set the tone with its thoughtful and expressive writing.
- Ain’t Gonna Let Nobody Turn Me Around, a traditional American song with roots in the civil rights movement, was reimagined in a lively hip-hop style using Sing Up resources.
- Hear Me Out by Amy Bryce was specially commissioned for the festival. The piece explores both the challenge and joy of bringing a creative idea to life, with elements co-created by Camden schools.
- Ho Hey by The Lumineers brought an upbeat energy, arranged by Camden Music tutor Ezra Burke, who also leads CamJam and Camden Voices.
- The Power of My Voice by David Rees provided a powerful finale, celebrating belief, confidence and the uplifting force of singing together.
A proud moment for schools
The festival once again highlighted the dedication of teachers, the commitment of pupils, and the strength of music-making across Camden schools.
“We all thoroughly enjoyed the concert… I am always impressed at the quality of singing… I feel privileged and proud that St Paul’s contributed to the success.”
— Catherine Gray, St Paul’s CE Primary School
“It was truly a wonderful event and a real moment for our children and teachers to be proud of.”
— Lacey Cousins, Hawley Primary School
“The children haven’t stopped talking about it!”
— Artur Piteira Vicente, Kingsgate Primary School
“Our children really enjoyed singing with so many other schools and to such a large audience.”
— Katy Forsdyke, Christ Church Primary School
Looking ahead
The Primary Choir Festival takes place every two years and will return in 2028.
In the meantime, Camden Music is already preparing for the next major event in the calendar: the Schools Music Festival at the Royal Albert Hall on 21 April 2027.
Want to get involved?
If this has inspired you to get involved with singing at Camden Music, we’d love to hear from you.
Find out more at:
Find out more and sign up at Join a Group – Camden Music
CamJam Voices (Years 3–5)
Saturday mornings, 11.30–12.15 at Brecknock Primary School
A welcoming training choir for younger singers. No auditions.
Camden Youth Choir (Years 6–13)
Saturday mornings, 10.00–11.00 at Camden School for Girls
Open to all young people. No auditions.
Chamber Choir (Years 6–13)
Saturday mornings, 9.00–10.00 at Camden School for Girls
Members are invited to join following an informal audition. All members are also part of Camden Youth Choir.
Camden Holiday Voices (Years 6–13)
For singers who enjoy harmony, pop, soul and R&B. Takes place during the Camden Music Holiday Course, beginning after school on Fridays.
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