Smith’s Wood Academy choir members whose festive songs electrified this year’s Christmas lights switch-on have been invited by Solihull’s Mayor to pay her a VIP visit.
The singers from the school, which is part of the ambitious Fairfax Multi Academy Trust, impressed the Mayor of Solihull Councillor Annette Mackenzie when they performed at the festive event on Friday 28th November.
And, as a reward, they have received an invitation to visit the Mayor’s parlour in 2026.
Ciaran Barber, Head of Performing Arts and PE at Smith’s Wood, said: “Our choir were delighted to showcase their talents and charm the audience at the lights switch-on at Smith’s Wood Parish Council.
“They performed two songs – Last Christmas by Wham and Jingle Bells – right after the exciting countdown from 10 and the big switch-on!”
According to Mr Barber, the students felt immense pride at taking part in the community event.
He said: “Onlookers, family, friends and staff beamed with pride – which made the pupils all the more proud and confident!
“We’ve received overwhelmingly positive feedback, which we’ve shared with the students, and we are already booked in to perform at the event next Christmas.”
But Smith’s Wood Academy’s talented young singers won’t have to wait that long to perform for admiring locals again – as the Mayor personally asked the school choir to visit her parlour as her guests, where they may again have the opportunity to sing.
Mr Barber said: “Dates and details haven’t been finalised yet, but we’re very eager to visit the Mayor and perform for her if she wishes.”
Until then, the Smith’s Wood choir will continue their weekly practice sessions to perfect their songs and harmonies even further.
Mr Barber said: “Our choir come together to rehearse once a week on Tuesday, and they even committed to extra rehearsals on Thursdays leading up to the lights switch-on. They put in a lot of hard work and time to make it happen.
“We see our students benefit in many ways from being part of the choir. They gain a sense of inclusivity and belonging, a chance to express themselves as a group and individually, and support and friendship from one another – on top of the pride and experience performing opportunities like this provide.
“I’m extremely proud of what they’ve accomplished. It was lovely to see all the progress they’ve made over the last 12 months be showcased not only to staff and loved ones, but to the wider community.
“They did everyone proud.”