During the summer term, we were delighted to welcome back former BSN Head of Music, Andrew Wright, along with former BSN Head of  Art, Richard Cunliffe, for a tour of the Music Department at SSV. Their visit was a reminder of the rich musical heritage that continues to shape the BSN community.

Andrew Wright’s impact on music at BSN was profound. In 1982, he spearheaded the creation of the legendary Children Unite LP, recorded by the BSN Junior School choir with the support of Dutch pop music producers duo Bolland & Bolland. The record reached the Dutch Top Ten, and the choir were invited to perform on national television and at the prestigious Congresgebouw (today World Forum). Their performance even caught the attention of American country and folk icon John Denver, who was so impressed that he visited the school and donated a Yamaha grand piano—still in use at BSN today.

Photo: back row L-R, Ferdi Bolland, Andrew Wright, Brian Davidson, Headteacher, Rob Bolland, Sir Philip Mansfield, the British Ambassador KCMG and Maureen Jonker MBE, Head of the Junior School

During Andrew and Richard’s visit, we took the opportunity to listen to a couple of tracks from Children Unite, as Andrew fondly recalled his time at BSN and the impact of the record. We then watched a music video of a track from BSN’s latest release Recorded Memories, from our own record label, BSN Sessions. This new album features performances by students from across SSV, recorded at Wisseloord Studios in Hilversum—the very same studio where Children Unite was brought to life.

What makes Recorded Memories especially meaningful is the hands-on involvement of our current students—not only as performers, but also as producers and engineers. A Level Music Technology students led the technical production of the album, taking charge of recording, mixing, and mastering the final tracks under the guidance of our dedicated staff. Their work reflects not only musical talent, but also technical expertise, collaboration, and creative leadership. Recorded Memories is available on Spotify.