Viva La Fiesta: Celebrating Music at Worldwise Festival of Music

On 13 – 16 November, Dulwich College Beijing (DCB) proudly hosted this year's Worldwise Festival of Music, where over 250 Senior School students across nine Education in Motion (EiM) networks of schools gathered to create unforgettable memories through music. These students, connected by their shared passion for music, converged on the DCB campus to blend talents in an inspiring collaboration that culminated in a spectacular gala concert at the Shunyi Grand Theatre.

Formerly known as the Dulwich Festival of Music, this annual event brings together passionate young musicians to share their love of performance, guided by our talented educators.

This year's vibrant theme, Viva La Fiesta, kicked off with three days of intense rehearsals, culminating in impressive performances from the percussion ensemble, choir, rock bands, jazz band, and a symphony orchestra.

Clare Anderson-Au, Head of DCB Senior School, remarked on how impressive the students were, considering they only had 20 hours to work and practice together. "To the students and families who travelled all the way from Singapore, Shanghai, Suzhou, Xi'an and Seoul, thank you for joining us here in Beijing – it's certainly been worth it. Thank you to our talented students and teachers who have made this all possible."

Anthony Coles, Head of Dulwich College Beijing, highlighted how the event put on display each individual's artistry and their collective achievement. "The festival's theme, Viva La Fiesta, emphasised cultural connections and diverse musical traditions, offering students opportunities to explore new genres, learn from mentors, and grow as performers. Thank you to all of the amazing participants, staff, especially our music department, and parents for making the event a success. This festival continues to inspire and enrich our community!"

Edgar Zillmann, Head of Events and Educational Partnerships at EiM, expressed how the event truly exemplified the power of collaboration within the EiM network, showcasing the incredible talent, dedication, and passion of over 250 young musicians across nine schools in Asia. "The vibrant Viva La Fiesta theme inspired a breathtaking gala concert that highlighted not only the strength of our music educators but also the remarkable synergy between our schools. It was heartening to witness students from diverse campuses harmonise so beautifully, creating an unforgettable celebration of music and community. Congratulations to the performers, teachers, and organisers for setting a high bar of excellence and demonstrating the unity and strength of our EiM family!"

In Dulwich College International, we offer a holistic education equipping our students with skills for lifelong success, therefore we are committed to providing a vigorous arts programme. Students study the arts as part of the academic curriculum throughout their school life, and students in the older year levels are highly encouraged to take IGCSE, IB or A-Level in an arts subject. The vibrant arts culture of visiting professional arts practitioners, performances and events is carefully planned to develop and enhance not only the co-curricular life of the school, but also the academic curriculum.

Music plays a major role in DCI education. The College provides all students from Years 3 to 7 with a musical instrument and group lessons each week, giving them an appreciation for music and the associated developmental skills from a young age. For older students, music is offered at IGCSE and IB or A-Level.

Individual schools support music through formal concerts and ad hoc performance opportunities, such as the "Busking Corners" at some DCI schools, where anyone can perform and pass the hat for contributions to charity.

 

 

 

Group music events include Diversity, ISCMS, MADD, and the Worldwise Festival of Music.