As part of World Music Day on 21 June, we’re celebrating the power of music by shining a spotlight on someone who lives and breathes musical energy every day: our Director of Music, Mr James Woodhall.

Since joining Reading Blue Coat in September last year, Mr Woodhall has brought incredible energy, experience and inspiration to the school’s musical life. With a passion for performance and a deep love of teaching, he’s already made a huge impact in just his first year.

“Music is the best thing in the world!” Mr Woodhall says. “It enhances important occasions, makes films more dramatic, helps us relax. Everyone has a song or a piece they love and making music, whether playing, singing or creating something new, is just fantastic.”

It was this joy and sense of purpose that led Mr Woodhall to a career in music education. Having previously held the role of Director of Music at several other schools, he joined Reading Blue Coat ready to build on an already strong department.

“The variety of every day is amazing, and the students are endlessly inspiring. I love working with the choirs and bands, as well as teaching lessons. Whole school hymn practice is always really good fun – hearing everyone sing together is such a great moment. I also really enjoy working with advanced musicians in Sixth Form on their own compositions and introducing younger students to famous pieces for the first time.”

In just his first year at Reading Blue Coat, Mr Woodhall has already seen many musical highlights. Reflecting on his first year, he shared one particularly memorable moment that brought the whole Music Department and school together, despite some very British weather!

“There have been many highlights during my time at Blue Coat so far. Despite the pouring rain, the end-of-term concert ‘Swing into Summertime’ held in the last week of my first year, and following a fantastic week in which we presented The Lion King Jr, which I musically directed – was absolutely tremendous. Even with dreadful weather, everyone enjoyed themselves and the music was excellent.”

Mr Woodhall credits his musical upbringing for laying the foundation of his career. His father, a pianist, violinist and teacher, was his first violin teacher, and Mr Woodhall has continued to play piano and sing throughout his life. But it’s his students, he says, who keep inspiring him every day.

“It is such a privilege to encourage and support young people to experience and enjoy music making. This is why I became a music teacher and why it is an honour to be the Director of Music at Reading Blue Coat.”

When it comes to musical taste, Mr Woodhall’s playlist is eclectic.

“I love funk, soul and disco – playing Earth, Wind & Fire with the Big Band is a highlight. The symphonies of Beethoven are so full of drama as are Shostakovich’s, both of whom I find hugely inspiring. And the Christmas Carol Service is one of my favourite annual events.”

To mark World Music Day, Mr Woodhall is keen to celebrate the diversity of music beyond Western traditions.

“We teach music from all around the world as part of the curriculum and celebrating the similarities and differences in musical cultures is always interesting. Recently, I’ve enjoyed learning more about Samba and South American music. Exploring how cultures differ and where they connect is always fascinating.”

And one fun fact students may not know? Mr Woodall is also an active composer, with an album of his music due to be released soon by Divine Art Records. It’s a great example of his creativity extending well beyond the classroom.

Whether he’s conducting choirs, mentoring Sixth Form composers, or helping Year 7s discover iconic pieces for the first time, Mr Woodall’s passion for music means there’s never a quiet moment in the Music Department, making him the perfect person to celebrate this World Music Day!