Raps Live! concert series returns to Ramsgate Arts Primary

Singer songwriter Naomi Hammerton treats pupils to a live gig

Music plays a key note in learning at Ramsgate Arts Primary.

The latest in the Raps Live! series of regular concerts for children of all age groups featured singer songwriter Naomi Hammerton.

She performed to a packed hall of children from Year 2 to Year 6. She taught her young audience how to sing in harmony, performed one of her original numbers, and also a cover version of Tina Turner’s anthemic show-stopper Simply The Best.

The concerts are organised by Assistant Head of School Hannah Dannell who explained: “It is so important that we continue to expose children to live music to inspire them and prove that you can make a career in the profession. Our girls and boys were transfixed by the acoustic numbers – you could hear a pin drop.

“Watching someone perform live definitely inspires them and exposes them to different genres, instruments and teaches them how to be an audience. Hopefully it will encourage them to take up an instrument or singing.”

Naomi, who is a parent at the school, runs choirs across the country and has sung on film soundtracks including Trolls. It is hoped to invite an adult choir to perform at next term’s concert.

Head of School Nick Budge said: “This was a successful way to start our series of RAPS Live! for the coming school year.

“We offer our pupils a range of musical experiences including performing in our rock band, learning from visiting professionals, singing in our choir, performing musicals and in classroom activities.

“An inspirational live show is so different from watching someone play on television or in a DVD for example. Sitting just feet away from the performer they can see up close the artistry and work that goes into the show – they experience the response as part of an audience. It is energising learning and is a great part of our music learning.”