AN EXOTIC South American percussion instrument donated by a South West Surrey-based charity made its debut appearance at Godalming College’s Christmas Concert, which featured around 100 musicians playing to a 200-strong audience.

Dan Eley, a former student was also a special guest at the show in aid of his foundation, which featured a marimba solo played by Will Rowling

The concert orchestra played selections from ‘Chicago’, ‘Gonna Fly Now’ and Stevie Wonder hits, and an eclectic mix of classics followed, ranging from the Violin Duet Invention numbers 1 and 8 by Bach and Trombone Quartet: Movement 2 by Bourgeios – to modern hits such as James Bond theme tune ‘Sky Fall’ and a cover of Amy Winehouse’s hit ‘Valerie’, performed by the jazz band.

A festive second half, featured the wind quintet playing ‘Away in a Manager’, the flute trio’s ‘Gaudete’, and the chamber choir’s ‘Seal Lullaby’ by Witacre, ‘Angels Carol’ and ‘Oh Magnum Mysterium’.

The Godalming College Singers performed Paul McCartney’s ‘Wonderful Christmastime’ and ‘Silent Night’ and the concert orchestra finished with The Pogues’ ‘Fairytale of New York’, ‘Ukranian Bell Carol’ and a medley of Christmas tunes, entitled ‘A Jazzy Christmas’.

Head of music Ceilidh Botfield said: “I continue to be astounded by the talent, dedication and professionalism of the students.

“Each year they work incredibly hard to produce fantastic performances and I am very proud of them all. I wish them all a well-deserved rest over Christmas and am looking forward to working towards our spring concert next term.”