Talented creative arts students from Erdington Academy joined the other schools in the respected Fairfax Multi-Academy Trust at Birmingham University for a wonderful 2025 FMAT Showcase.
The event, now in its fourth year of running, united Erdington Academy with Fairfax Academy, Smith’s Wood Academy and Bournville School for an enchanting night of stellar performances in the university’s iconic Elgar Concert Hall.
Among the Erdington students who took to the stage at the University’s Bramall Music Hall were a troupe of 28 young actors, who opened the evening’s second act with their performance of Grease.
The school also had several other musical acts, which the children had been working hard at preparing in their spare time.
Ian Horton, music teacher at Erdington Academy, said: “The students have been working on their performances since September. They chose their own songs and have been working relentlessly. I’m so proud of them – some of the pieces they chose were really difficult.”
Erdington showcased the talents of their young guitarists, including Charlie Sloan-Lee, Kushnoor Shoaib, Arina Rusatki and Aaron Khalil.
Mr Horton said: “One of the highlights of the evening was our Bob Marley guitar medley.
“The students chose some of his most political tracks, which I think is very fitting for today’s climate. It really resonated with us and with the audience.”
The school also provided the final solo performance of the evening – a stunning piano piece played by Patrick Ugochukwu.
Mr Horton sang Patrick’s praises.
He said: “Patrick played a Grade 8 music piece – something which many music teachers like myself wouldn’t even attempt – and he played it without any sheet music, as he committed it all to memory. He is an incredibly impressive musician.”
The finale performance of the night was delivered by the FMAT choir, which brings together young singers from all four schools.
Mr Horton said: “We were proud to contribute some of our best singers to the FMAT choir, which is going from strength to strength.”
Erdington Academy students at FMAT showcase
Mr Horton said performing in such an amazing venue gives Erdington students the confidence and motivation to strive for greater things.
He said: “This venue is iconic – the best musicians in Birmingham have played here, and it’s something for our children to aspire to.
“It’s great for them to experience performing on a big stage, and we often find that once young singers have had that experience for the first time, they want to pursue performing more.
“Plus, the staff here at the University are so accommodating and dedicated to getting things perfect for our students, which means so much to us. They see our young people as the future of music and drama.”
The annual FMAT showcase has become a beloved fixture on the school calendar.
Mr Horton said: “The students look forward to this event so much every year – it’s woven into the Erdington fabric. We have so many put themselves forward to perform.
“It’s a beautiful atmosphere from start to finish. Right from the beginning the children from different schools are mingling and supporting one another.
“It’s such an uplifting experience.”
Principal Simon Mallett said: “We are so proud of the Erdington Academy students who took the stage for this year’s FMAT Showcase.
“They worked very yard to prepare for their performances, and did the school, their families and the community proud on a memorable night.
“They worked very hard to prepare for the evening and I’m sure they will remember performing in such a prestigious venue for the rest of their lives.”