Jonathan Todhunter the King’s School

Paul was asked to compose a song for the opening of the 2014 Year 6 PYP Exhibition at King’s. We had heard great things about his passion and abilities but were totally unprepared for the journey that Paul would take us on. Paul instantly made connections with all the boys and staff that he came into contact with and the sheer joy that he brought to working on a new project was infectious. His workshops were engaging and most importantly he made each boy feel valued and proud of the ideas that they shared with him. Paul left with a bag full of work from the boys highlighting their hopes, fears and dreams for their futures and we waited with excitement for him to return with our new composition.

The work, ‘Anything I Dream’ reached so far beyond our expectations. The profundity of the words, the strength of the melodic lines and the sheer impact that this song had on the performers and audience was so powerful. The premiere performance, conducted by Paul and accompanied by talented students on piano and with strings was a triumph and was a night that all those present will never forget.

Paul gave so much and so willingly. He has inspired a cohort of students to aim higher, have courage in their hopes and to connect with their dreams through a powerful composition. The journey that we went on with Paul can really only be experienced to be perfectly described but we are delighted to have Paul as friend of King’s and so look forward to our next journey with him.
Jonathan Todhunter
Preparatory School Director of Music
The King’s School