Mount Carmel hosted an evening of music inspired by Accrington born Sir Harrison Birtwistle who studied at the Manchester College of Music and then moved to London. He was knighted in 1988 and received an MBE in 2002. The evening consisted of fabulous performances which showcased the talent of young people in the area.

Year 10 Performing Arts pupils from Mount Carmel and from two primary schools; St. Andrew’s and Hyndburn Park along with 3 local dance groups; KTZ Dance, Dance Syndrome and ReAct Academy each worked alongside Opera North’s David Aspin and Creative Project Manager Gayle Knight to create some truly unique, "unconventional" music and dance.

The event was made possible thanks to Accrington Music Association with funding from Hyndburn Borough Council. A big “Thank You” also goes to Mount Carmel Arts Award pupils who ran the entire show from setting up, welcoming guests, and hosting on stage, this project was part of the requirements needed to achieve their Silver or Gold Arts Awards.

Special guests to the performances were Sir Harrison’s son Silas Birtwistle, Deputy Mayor of Hyndburn Noordad Aziz and actor Julie Hesmondhalgh.

Gayle Knight who has worked with Mount Carmel pupils to achieve their Arts Award qualifications commented "I want to say a big thank you to all the pupils involved for their contribution to the event."
"It went even better than I'd hoped and achieved everything I and Accrington Music Association wanted. I also want you all to know how proud I am of the Mount Carmel pupils who were involved, particularly the Arts Award pupils. They stepped out of their comfort zones, spoke confidently on stage, made assertive decisions and were a real credit to the school in the way they managed the event. They deserve recognition for this."