Winners announced for the BBC Songs of Praise School Choir of the Year 2016 competition

Lindley Junior School came top of the Junior School choir category and Tring Park School For The Performing Arts became the winners of the Senior School choir.

The schools fought off stiff competition from Hereford Cathedral Junior School, Blackheath Preparatory School, St George’s College and Oakham School.

Tommy Nagra, Executive Producer from Songs of Praise comments: “This year’s finalists showcased inspiring and spine-tingling performances of the highest quality. The children, teachers and parents of all our entrants deserve real praise for embracing the competition and supporting the fine tradition of singing in schools across the UK. The judges had a tough task picking the winners, who demonstrated choral excellence of the highest standard. Congratulations to Lindley Junior School from Yorkshire and Tring Park School from Hertfordshire who walked away with the coveted trophy as winners of School Choir of The Year 2016.”

Alison North, Musical Director, from Lindley Junior School said: “Songs of Praise School Choir of the Year is a wonderful competition. We feel very fortunate to be appearing in our third final in a row. We have loved every minute - the friendly atmosphere and camaraderie, the opportunity to perform on the national stage in front of so many of our relatives and friends and meeting the judges and Aled. We were all so proud and thrilled to have won such a prestigious competition - third time lucky! The comments we received from the judges were so positive and the other choirs were so talented making the whole experience so exciting and one we will all remember for many years to come."

Liz Norris, director of music from Tring Park School For The Performing Arts said: “This is the first year that we have entered the Songs of Praise School Choir of the Year competition and even having seen it on television, we really didn’t know what to expect. The standard was extremely high however from all choirs competing, and to say that we were surprised and delighted with the result would be an understatement! I am unbelievably proud of the choristers for their talent, commitment, professionalism and passion and feel honoured to be able to work with such amazing young people."

Notes to Editors
BBC Songs of Praise School Choir of the Year competition is broadcast on BBC One, Sunday 24 April, at 3.50pm until 4.35pm.

KW