Through John Lyon’s strong connection with the Harrow Family of Schools, our pupils benefit from opportunities that extend beyond the classroom. As part of this global network, they are able to collaborate with peers in other countries, experience different cultures and in music are given the opportunity to perform in some prestigious venues.

This October half term, a group of pupils took part in an international exchange – a six-day music tour to New York in partnership with Harrow International School, New York.

Members of the Pride of Lyons and Motet Choir, accompanied by several instrumentalists, spent the week performing in some of New York’s most iconic cathedrals, including St. John the Divine and St. Patrick’s Cathedral. They were also privileged to give a concert at the Bourne Mansion in Oakdale, Long Island, for prospective parents of Harrow International School, New York. A particular highlight was rehearsing and performing Bill Withers’ 1972 classic Lean on Me with American students, a song whose message of community and mutual support felt especially fitting and moving for this inaugural exchange. In addition to delivering many outstanding performances, pupils had the opportunity to visit several of New York’s best-known landmarks, including the Empire State Building, Times Square, and Ellis Island, passing by the Statue of Liberty.

 Soma, Year 11, reflects on the tour

“This music tour was one of the greatest experiences of my time at John Lyon School. We enjoyed good food, performed in some impressive venues and saw many interesting sights.
My favourite performance was singing in St Patrick’s Cathedral near the centre of Manhattan. It was a beautiful cathedral and the music we performed suited the setting perfectly. I enjoyed the visit to the Empire State Building, as it gave us a view over the whole of New York City. Being able to share the experience with my friends made it even better.

During our visit, we stayed at Harrow International School New York on Long Island in a stunning setting with its own mansion house and private beach. However, it was the people who really made this trip. We had the chance to meet and learn with pupils from the school. It was a valuable opportunity, and I left having made many new friends.”

Lara, Year 8 reflects on the tour

“The trip to New York City was amazing and it was such a great experience. It was my first big school trip, which made everything feel even more exciting.

One of my favourite parts was singing in the beautiful cathedrals. Some were huge and when we sang our voices echoed all around. It felt special and I think everyone enjoyed it as much as I did. I especially loved sharing the trip with my friends and visiting famous places like Times Square, the Statue of Liberty and Central Park together. We all learnt a lot about New York and its History.

After going on this trip, I feel much more confident and excited about travelling like this with the School again.”