OLD STOPS’ REVIEW ISSUE 4 2014

An Evening with Marianne EllioTt DISCOVERING TALENT with Louis Bloom Memories of Music Masters School News Old Stops’ Review | Welcome Old Stops’ Review | Welcome

WELCOME TO OUR FOURTH EDITION

here is no ‘typical’ and were prominent in the commercial reflect these new realities, together We hope to organise similar occasions Please let us know if you have any CONTENTS T Old Stopfordian! life of the North-West. More recent with the ease and convenience which in the future to forge strong links suggestions for future events or generations of young women and developments in communication and with those who may find it less easy would like to call in on your next visit As we begin to plan to celebrate the men have developed the skills and social networking have brought. Our to travel to Stockport for an event. to Stockport. I do hope that you will The President’s Reflections 4 centenary of the School’s move to talents nurtured at their school to recent highly successful evening in Whilst buildings are important and the enjoy reading this publication and that From The Helm 4-5 Woodsmoor in 1916, it is interesting build successful careers in the global London with the distinguished theatre chance to reminisce offers the comfort it will encourage you to renew your to reflect on the changing nature of business community at local, national director Marianne Elliott enabled of nostalgia, the strength of any school contacts with fellow Old Stopfordians. Old Stops in London 6 our community. For most of our long and international level. many recent Old Stopfordians to take lies in its people and in its capacity Where Are They Now? 8-10 history, the ‘old boys’ of Stockport time from their busy working lives to anticipate and equip girls and boys Grammar School formed the backbone Our busy programme of activities to reconnect with their friends and for the challenges they will face in life Andrew Chicken Sporting Highlights 11 of the professions in their home town and functions has been extended to contemporaries. beyond the school gates. Headmaster The Search for the Next Beatles 12

Memories of Music Masters 14

School Highlights 16

Stopping By 17

Announcements 19

Dates for your Diary 20

School Highlights page 16

The cast of Godspell 2014

2 3 Old Stops’ Review | Sarah Johnson, From The Helm Old Stops’ Review | From The Helm Sarah Johnson (OS 1994) From the Reflects on her year Helm - The as President of the Grammar Old Stopfordians’ School ON THE HALLAM Association SITE The first was the 1990s Reunion As we begin to think about the attended by over 100 former pupils events unfolding in Europe one of my generation held on a very hundred years ago, we are able to sunny Saturday in July. Very reflect that, here in Stockport different was the Remembrance another chapter was about to begin Reunion also held at school for for the school. those that attended the school between 1930 and 1955. The very On 14th April 1914 the foundation poignant and moving ceremony was stone was laid for the new Grammar also attended by all Fifth Year and School buildings on the Bramhall Sixth Form pupils. Lodge estate at Mile End, then owned by Mr. Alfred Bell, a member of a In January we held a very successful well-known local brewing family. London event at the Royal Institute of British Architects where the In 1910 the Greek Street buildings “it was desirable that highly successful and entertaining were bulging at the seams with 172 the buildings to be Marianne Elliott took part in a Q & A pupils. The Board of Education had erected should be of a Sarah left SGS in 1994 but returned session hosted by David Howson. indicated that there was substantial character suitable for a to work in the Development Office in We very much hope to be able to overcrowding and something would 1999. She now works in the Music host a similar event in London in have to be done as the school fell Grammar School...” department and is a parent of a the future. considerably short of modern current pupil. standards. Given that fifty years None of these events would have before, the school had been in Top - The school site 1930s “It has been a busy year and I really been possible without Rachel imminent danger of closing due to Left - The Hallam Hall 1930s wanted to help develop links with Horsford and the External Relations the serious decline in numbers the Below - Stuart and Carol Helm younger Old Stops so my first official Office. If you are interested in present problem presented a Negotiations had been started to Charity. G. H. Norris, a Governor and at last summer’s 90s Reunion. event was speaking to the outgoing hosting or arranging a reunion, refreshing challenge and discussions purchase the land and the London Old Boy gave £1,000. With finances Upper Sixth Form about the OSA and whether it is in Stockport or further began to take place, with some sense architects Spalding and Spalding were now secure the architects advised that what the Association could mean for afield, please do not hesitate to of urgency, about the possibility of commissioned to draw up the plans. the whole structure be raised by two them. It is so important that our contact them by emailing re-location. The Education Board were unhappy at feet which would make the buildings younger members become involved externalrelations@ the estimated cost of £32,000 and a more impressive when viewed from and I hope that they are able to make stockportgrammar.co.uk Six sites were shortlisted for the new proposed swimming pool was removed the railway. Work began in earnest the most out of the ties that have buildings. One, in Heaton Norris, was from the plans saving £2,000. The and the contractors, Daniel Eadie and been made both at school and once Finally, the OSA Dinner took place not seriously considered, as that area Board were also somewhat worried Son, took only a little over twenty they have left. in March to end my presidential was thought to be too near to about the style of the buildings, months to complete the project on year and I was thrilled to be able Manchester Grammar School. Two thinking it rather ornate for a mere schedule and on budget despite the I also had the privilege of speaking to present Stuart Helm with a others were near the Crown Inn on school. The Governors however were difficulties of the war. at Speech Day at Stockport Plaza Distinguished Life Member award in Buxton Road in Great Moor. One, alongside Olympic swimmer, Mark appreciation of his long and valued resolved that ‘it was desirable that the behind the Inn was found to be too Foster. The event has changed greatly service to the Association. buildings to be erected should be of a We always welcome any Old Stop near to Stepping Hill Hospital and the since the days when it was held at the character suitable for a Grammar wishing to explore the school archives, other, opposite the Inn, was not quite Davenport Theatre and it really I would like to thank the OSA School and not limited to those of an so please contact the External large enough. Another possible site showcases the vast array of activities committee, in particular Secretary ordinary Secondary School and that Relations Office on 0161 419 2408 if was part of the Highfield House that pupils are now involved in. Richard Griffiths, for their continued the position be fully reported to the you wish to visit. Estate in Davenport, but this was hard work and support over the Educational Charities in the Town.’ considered to be too far away from a I have enjoyed attending many school year. I have had a wonderful year tram route. The only other contender events such as music concerts, plays, as President. I feel privileged to The Charities responded magnificently. Best Wishes to the chosen location was the Mile Stuart Helm (OS 1964) nativities, musicals and the Duke of have been elected and wish my The Ephraim Hallam Charity promised Archivist and OSA Membership Secretary Edinburgh presentation evening and successor, Mike Cheslett OS 1981 End Hall estate, where Stockport £18,000 and a further £4,000 was School now stands. this year has also seen several OSA good luck in what I know will be a donated while the school was being With acknowledgement to William events. busy yet rewarding year.” built. £2,000 came from the Brownell and James Ball.

4 5 Old Stops’ Review | Old Stops in London Old Stops’ Review | Old Stops in London

Warhorse was almost five years in But when asked about the possibility Alumni Assistant Maili Lavin (OS development and workshopping and of running the National Theatre, she 2008) said of the evening: “The event she describes it as a “crazy idea!” She said “I don’t want it to take over my life was a great success and we were so also spoke about bringing strong female entirely. I think you have to be married happy with the amazing turnout. I was characters onto the stage, something to the building to do it and I’ve got a particularly happy to see so many of she has done in a good number of her child and I really want to spend time the younger Old Stops attending, and shows over the years. with her and with my husband.” hope that it sets a precedent for future events! It was really nice to see old The Tony Award-winning Director Following the huge success of Warhorse friends meeting up with each other and discussed the creative process of her on Broadway, Marianne is taking The enjoying the opportunity to catch up work: “I love the rehearsal process, Curious Incident of the Dog in the on each others’ lives, as well as I’m the happiest I ever am in the Night-time to Broadway this summer enjoying the captivating Q&A with rehearsal room. I love it….because and says that she would love to stage Marianne and David.” when everybody’s together and it’s Macbeth in the National Theatre’s car all working it’s like the most beautiful park one day! The evening continued the new piece of jazz music and everybody’s tradition of London receptions jamming.” She also spoke about the A passionate and innovative director which commenced with the 525th importance of challenging herself, who is highly thought of in her industry, anniversary celebration at Goldsmiths’ saying “it’s so emotionally expensive to we were hugely honoured to be in Hall and leads the way for further do a show…so why do another run-of- Marianne Elliott’s company and would Old Stops’ events in the capital. the-mill production?” like, once again to extend our thanks to her.

150 former pupils and staff gathered Marianne’s parents were both in the the Royal Exchange Theatre and her at the Royal Institute of British theatre and she talked about growing mother, the actor Rosalind Knight has Architects in London for an exclusive up in a “bohemian” household, losing enjoyed a long career on both stage drinks reception and Q&A evening with her father at a young age when he and screen, even being directed by Old Stopfordian and award-winning died shortly after she joined the Marianne in the Noel Coward play National Theatre Associate Director Sixth Form, and about her initial Nude with Violin. Marianne describes Marianne Elliott. hesitancy at embarking on a career the experience as “great… she was in the theatre, saying that she grew the most enthusiastic, the most Deputy Headmaster David Howson up disliking theatre and drama and passionate, the most obedient actor led the conversation with Marianne longed to rebel and pursue a career I’ve ever worked with.” who is renowned for her critically in “something radical like fashion acclaimed productions, including War buying!” She also walked the audience along “I love the rehearsal Horse and The Curious Incident of the her career path starting with her Dog in the Night-time. His thought- Drama degree at Hull University; process... it’s like the provoking questions led into a lively touching on her work which followed most beautiful piece discussion followed by questions from “I was in the right in her father’s footsteps at the Royal of jazz music and the audience. Exchange Theatre, which she calls place at the right time” “the best theatre in the world”; her everybody’s jamming” Before talking about her professional directing at the Royal Shakespeare career, Marianne was reminded of Growing up, she saw drama as a Company and her current role at the her portrayal of Maggie Hobson in threat (as even her grandparents National Theatre, about which she Hobson’s Choice during her time in and older sister were actors too) says she was “in the right place at the Sixth Form at SGS, which one and felt directing was an intellectual the right time.” The award-winning reviewer remarked: “communicated profession for men. Slowly over the director credits her achievements to great warmth and her big eyes sent years she came to appreciate “how the fact that she works hard and is out waves of emotion and tenderness.” brilliant it was” and she acknowledges passionate about what she does and As one of the earliest female pupils that, as someone who has particularly discussed the fact that female directors at SGS, Marianne told the audience strong feelings and emotions, but are in the minority. On being asked “What I remember about Stockport has never felt particularly articulate, about the success of her productions, Grammar very, very fondly is that it her productions speak for her and Marianne explained her need to have was like a kind of opening of the door are an articulation of those emotions. a connection with the story and the and a broadening of the mind. I had Marianne’s father, Michael Elliott OBE length of time she spends on a text some amazing teachers.” was a Founding Artistic Director of before it even goes into rehearsal.

6 7 Old Stops’ Review | Where are they now? Old Stops’ Review | Where are they now?

LITERARY TALENT WHERE Afshan Lodhi (OS 2009) is working in the world of writing and publishing. Whilst at university, Afshan worked M O N E Y HOLIDAY ARE part-time as a publishing assistant for TALKS WARDROBE Dog Horn Publishing and was made Manchester band M O N E Y Sarah McColl Deputy Director of Publishing after features Charlie Cocksedge (OS 2000) has just she graduated. (OS 2006) on guitar and released her debut THEY collection of premium keyboard. The four-piece Afshan has been involved with band’s style has been likened resort and beachwear, Commonword, a writer development to Joy Division and Manic which has been NOW? organisation based in Manchester, where Street Preachers by featured in the she helped to organise the seventh National The Guardian. The Sunday Times Black and Asian Writers Conference in which she With star connections like Style Magazine. After working as a was a panellist alongside such esteemed writers as Malorie Blackman. Head of their record label that, the band seem marked stylist and visual Bella Union, Simon Raymonde for success, with a UK-wide merchandiser, Afshan also co-directs a writing company called Young Enigma and has said on hearing them play live and European tour this year. inspiration struck written and performed in her own short plays. for the first time: “They’re Sarah when she was interesting people with a lot Charlie is the younger brother clothes-shopping for to say and the live shows fascinated of Matthew Cocksedge PUBLISHED AUTHOR BUILDING A NEW CAREER two overseas (OS 2002), part of Peter Firth (OS 1947) recently had a Having worked in telecoms and finance me. They were so extravagant and weddings in the electro-rock band book of his poetry published by Country for the last 25 years, and following the thoughtful, so rare in a new band.” same year, and her Delphic, so it’s clear that Books, entitled As Far as I Can See. sale of his stake in the business he The video for their latest single Hold label Edie Mac was born. founded nine years ago, Jonathan Me Forever was directed by A-list musical talent runs in the family! Though not included in the volume, Peter Lee (OS 1983) has begun a Master actor Cillian Murphy. Sarah has recently unveiled her also wrote a poem about Albert Johnson, of Studies in Building History at collection of thirteen silk creations, former SGS History teacher, entitled The Wolfson College, Cambridge University. made using natural fabrics. She History Man. This can be viewed on the keeps her pattern cutting, design school website. The research-based Masters degree, and sampling local, working hard which has been designed by the to make her contemporary pieces Peter has written two other books, Lord of Faculty of Architecture and History UNIVERSITY LACROSSE special for each customer, with a the Morning and The Love that Moves the of Art, trains students to become Two Old Stops were involved The two teams played against each pared-down and minimal look being NEWSPAPER EDITOR Sun. If you are interested in purchasing architectural historians; an area which in the British National Lacrosse other in the third round, with Pete the brand’s signature style. Edie Aimee Howarth (OS 2009) is one of Peter’s books, please email him at has fascinated Jonathan for years. Championships in May 2013, Pete and Andrew meeting in the coin toss. Mac pieces are currently available Editor and owner of local award- [email protected] Wilson (OS 2009) represented Andrew’s team came out on top in a from: www.ediemac.com winning community newspaper, The England Universities as Captain of 6-2 win against England Universities Saddleworth Independent. HEAR THIS GAME, SET AND MATCH the squad and Andrew Farrington and Scottish Universities triumphed, Vicki Hill (OS 2007) works as Will Ralston (OS 2007) is a sport (OS 2005) represented Scotland coming 10th in the tournament over PAEDIATRIC SURGERY a sound engineer and is currently Aimee started doing work experience writer for The Mirror newspaper, his Universities. England’s 11th. Nick Lansdale (OS 1998) working on Marianne Elliott’s award- for the paper as a writer whilst daily Wimbledon articles before and has recently moved to Alder winning production The Curious studying for her degree, eventually during the 2013 tournament making Hey Hospital as a Paediatric Incident of the Dog in the Night-time becoming News Editor. After she interesting reading. His articles on Surgeon and will be celebrating at the National Theatre. Isn’t it a graduated, Aimee completed a Sports the US Open and the China Open his graduation with a PhD from small world? Journalism Diploma with News in the same year, gave insights and Liverpool University this summer. Associates. predictions on performances and Vicki studied Stage Management potential champions. and Technical Theatre at LAMDA. Eagle-eyed Old Stops will have The paper has a readership of 12,000 Her recent work includes Jersey noticed his appearance in a which Aimee admits can be daunting. Boys at The National Theatre, The When Will isn’t writing, he is a Channel 4 documentary, filmed Having won awards for the last four Good Food Show and as a sound freelance professional tennis while he was in his previous years at the 02 North West Media designer for Measure for Measure sparring partner who competes on post at the Royal Manchester Awards, the paper is going from and Antony and Cleopatra at The the international circuit, as well as Children’s Hospital. strength to strength. Linbury Studio. coaching others. Nick’s success follows on from CHARITY TREK a clinical fellowship supported Kate Mitchell (OS 2012) will be trekking across volcanoes The money that Kate and her group raise will help children in by the Wellcome Trust which in Guatemala in July to raise money for Hope for Children, East Africa. Kate’s personal fundraising goal is £2,790 and any saw him spend time in Sweden alongside other students from the University of York. The donation would be greatly appreciated. whilst producing academic UK-based charity works to provide a sustainable future for https://2014yorks.everydayhero.com/uk/kate-mitchell research papers. children across the world.

8 9 Old Stops’ Review | Where are they now? Old Stops’ Review | OS Sport

THE VOICE LADY SINGS THE BLUES Jake Barlow (OS 2009) Lucy Hope (OS 2004) recently visited the school Lacrosse OS SPORTING Last year’s report in the Old Stops’ Review heralded is enjoying a busy and varied archive to dig out some old school photos from the music career. early noughties. She told us all about her busy singing the declining fortunes of Stopfordian lacrosse. career. After graduating from Oxford University HIGHLIGHTS The phasing out of the game from School some Having gained with a degree in French Literature, she has ten years earlier had started to take its toll as a degree in turned her love of singing into a Golf the source of new players dried up, whilst ageing Literae successful career as a ‘chanteuse’, Derek Morton organised the Inter-Old Boys competition at stalwarts have begun to hang up their boots. Humaniores with bookings for the likes of Bramhall Golf Club on 10th July, with teams of former pupils from Worcester Sir Alex Ferguson, Manchester from six local schools being entered. Fifty six golfers took part, At the club’s AGM in May 2013 members expressed College, Oxford, United and many corporate, ten of whom were Old Stops. The day’s winners were the Old the view that ideally they would like to continue where he sang in charity and private events. Maxonians (King’s Macclesfield) on 211 points with the Old as Stopfordians’ Lacrosse Club. In reality, most both Chapel choirs, Stops in third place on 207 points. Our best individual scorer were ready to acknowledge that it was no longer he is now a choral Lucy also sings as part of several was Peter (Fred) Maher who, with 37 points on his home course going to be possible to turn out a full squad of Old scholar in the internationally other ensembles and bands thereby retained the Inchley Bowl. Stops on a regular basis. So the difficult decision renowned choir at Truro Cathedral, including The ERC, fronted by was taken to merge with Norbury Lacrosse Club. Cornwall. Also a former member actress Maxine Peake. Their album, The Oppida Cup took place at Stockport Golf Club on 14th In fact, the result was not so much a merger as of the Magdalen College Consort of The 1612 Underture, was lauded by August in good weather with excellent course conditions. The a number of Stopfordian players joining Norbury Voices and Merton College Chapel journalists such as Lauren Laverne results were: en bloc. On most weeks when games have taken Choir, Jake has sung with some of and Stuart Maconie and was also place (waterlogged pitches allowing) three or four the most prestigious choral featured on BBC2’s Culture Show. Oppida Cup Stopfordians have played on the Norbury 1st team institutions in Oxford. In between engagements, Lucy Winner Mark Nesbit and five or six on the Norbury “A” team. The pitch is now working on her first studio Runner-up Paul Atkinson at Disley, the club’s home ground since 1987, has Jake has a private teaching practice album of original material. Best Gross Jubilee Cup continued to be used, mainly by the “A” team. in Cornwall and is the vocal coach in Winner Mark Nesbit On the positive side it has been encouraging to residence at New Cornwall Opera, School Golf Shield note that Norbury is an ambitious club with plans where he assists in training the Winner Henry Betts underway for junior development. There are company’s singers for operatic WRITING HOME wife, while trying to provide Centenary Trophy opportunities for Stopfordians to get involved with productions. He is also active in Tim Chalmers (OS 1983), a stable home for his son. Winner Paul Atkinson the development programme. Paul Bowden has musical outreach, taking classical senior sports journalist for His run-ins with playground already shown commitment to the junior teams and liturgical music to schools. When The Daily Mail has just had mothering mafia known as The intention is to move the date to Wednesday 24th and the driving force behind the Norbury club is he isn’t singing or teaching, Jake is his humorous yet touching the ‘Cappuccino Clan’ and September this year to avoid summer holiday clashes. Phil Holland, himself an Old Stop. also a music critic for a number of debut novel Home Time the ‘Pushy Posse’ and his websites and writes a music blog. published as an e-book on exclusion by virtue of his The annual Worth Trophy match against Old Maxonians was Before signing off, I would like to recall the most Amazon. The novel began sex and estimated income played at Knutsford Golf Club on 5th September in excellent recent major success of Stopfordians’ Lacrosse To find out more and keep up with his life on Tim’s blog about the bracket provide challenges conditions. The best six individual stableford scores from each just four years ago when an exciting and well projects, visit www.jake-barlow.com trials and tribulations of for the single father, along team were taken, with an overall win for Old Maxonians who balanced team won the Stockport Cup Final in an life as a new parent at the with the humiliation of produced six fantastic scores all from players with handicaps enthralling encounter before a lively crowd. There school gates and the politics inferior lunch boxes and his of 14 or less. Old Stops’ best scorer was Jonny Reeves with have been many successful Old Stops’ teams over 44 points. the years and many Stopfordians have contributed LOOKING SKETCHY that go with it. performance in the fathers’ race at sports day. Tim is massively to English lacrosse, whether as coaches, Alex Newall (OS 2007) is now working on his second David Withington administrators or as England players. The presence working as Story Editor and The central character, novel. Hon Secretary of individual Old Stops in Lacrosse will continue for Director for sketch group Casual William is struggling to cope years to come. Violence, having recently brought with the sudden loss of his their show House of Nostril to Richard Griffiths The Lowry, Salford Quays. The TV STAR production, which has been Since leaving school, Sophie described as “a gloom-trodden tale Skelton (OS 2012) hasn’t stopped. If you are of terror, tyranny and taxidermy” involved in lacrosse was previously launched at the Appearing in four episodes of the latest series elsewhere, Edinburgh Fringe Festival. either for fun or at of Waterloo Road as recurring professional level, character, Eve Boston and featuring Aside from his work with Casual we would very much as a lead character later this year Violence, Alex undertakes smaller like to hear from you as freelance projects and editing for in an independent WWII filmT he we are keen to update our other writers whilst also performing War I Knew, S o p h i e c e r t a i n l y information about former earned her place on the guest list on the London comedy circuit as a pupils’ achievements long-form improviser. alongside the great and the and careers. good of the world of film and TV at The Baftas in March.

10 Old Stops’ Review | Louis Bloom Old Stops’ Review | Louis Bloom

So how did you get Universal and we literally locked the industry. If you are not prepared to How do you remember DESERT ISLAND DISCS involved in the industry? door until they agreed to sign with us! dedicate your life to it then there is your time at SGS? Studying Law, I began to realise this This band was Busted. After that we no point. I am always available for My memories from school are that it Head of A&R (Artists and Repertoire) at Island Records, Louis Bloom was not something I was passionate auditioned around the country for a my artists or to see a new act, even was very big on discipline which I (OS 1994) chats to Tamara Shneck about life in the music business. about. I thought I was going to end up support act for Busted’s tour. This in the middle of the night. You have didn’t react well to! But it was also a in entertainment law but it dawned on band ultimately became Mcfly. to match up to your artists’ ambitions lot of fun. I was always getting into What influenced your like The Stone Roses and the Happy me during my degree that I needed to However, I was the first person to spot all the time. trouble especially in my early years decision to go into the Mondays. do something more creative. So I and put offers on the Arctic Monkeys but I worked really hard for my music business? began to go and see unsigned bands and Kasabian, but it proved difficult to I travel a lot, mainly to New York and GCSEs. I made some really good Since I was very young I have always I remember being at a school disco and made contact with record sign them because I had become LA. Last week I visited four European friends and some are still my best been incredibly passionate about music. when Nirvana’s Smells Like Teen Spirit companies in London, sending them known as a ‘pop’ A&R person. Being cities showcasing our latest signings. friends. I was never one of the cool My earliest memories are of sitting in came on. Without wanting to sound too reports about the latest acts coming associated with only pop music did not Back in London my day revolves kids or particularly sporty or academic front of my Dad’s record player, listening over-the-top, it changed my life. It out of Birmingham, and it got me help when trying to convince them to around listening to new music and but I remember enjoying lunch times to classic albums of the sixties and made me feel something I had never connected with the right people. I sign with us. deciding who we would like to sign, and playing the usual tricks, lots of seventies. As I grew up, I was felt before. Most people had left the was also putting club nights on at which is few and far between in laughing and taking the mickey out of fascinated by the latest hits, listening dance floor but for me it was everything the University. I have now worked my way up to relation to the huge amount I hear. each other. I always wished we could religiously to the charts on a Sunday I wanted from a song and band. It still is being Head of A&R for the last five The internet enables me to monitor play football though - I could never and enjoying music across all genres. one of my favourite songs of all time. After graduation I headed for London. years at Island Records. I have never acts a lot better than before but there get my head round rugby or lacrosse. At school most people were into dance I had already spent a lot of time there, been a music snob but it was always a are also more acts around than ever Generally though I did think it was a music and we were lucky to have the Then, during my time as a student in doing work experience for EMI and dream to work with artists that would so the skill is to spot the winners brilliant school and I felt lucky to be Manchester club scene on our doorstep, Birmingham I was lucky: with only Island Records during the holidays, be highly respected, who could before the competition. The rest of part of its great history. The buildings although I was a bit too young during seven hours of lectures a week, I spent so I wrote to them and called them compete creatively with the acts that my time is spent developing the acts and grounds are amazing and the the heyday of Factory Records and The most of my time learning about music, constantly. After a lot of persistence I I listened to from my Dad’s record I have signed and making sure they teachers made us feel that we could Haçienda but I got to appreciate the in record shops and reading NME cover managed to get in to RCA Records and collection. My more recent signings have the right PR and marketing go and achieve anything we set our music later, and listened to guitar bands to cover. was interviewed by a few people of acts such as Mumford and Sons teams supporting them. The set-up minds to. They taught us to think for So how did you get including Simon Cowell, who at that and Ben Howard feel to me like before you go to radio with an act is ourselves and to be inquisitive. A lot time was an A&R Manager, working on timeless artists with whom I’m proud absolutely critical and there are so of my classmates have gone on to do terrible records such as The Teletubbies! to be associated. many hurdles along the way. Getting really well with their careers, which Even then he was making a lot of a record deal does not guarantee says a lot. money for the company and I was Do you love your job then? anything, it’s just the beginning. Only immediately very impressed with him This job is all I’ve really known. I a handful of acts a year ever really Which teachers made the and still am, despite having very realise I’m very lucky to be working in make it. biggest impact on you? different taste in music! a creative industry, with artists who Mrs Graham, my English teacher was inspire me. I have met some brilliant What do you choose to listen always really supportive and taught I got a job as a scout to search for people with great minds along the to when you’re ‘off duty?’ really good classes - I think I fancied acts for the label. I can’t say this was way. I have seen some amazing gigs I go back to the albums that I have her a bit! Mr Henshall and Mr Cross, the most successful period in my and have been in the studios with the listened to all my life: The Beatles, my History teachers were incredible. career; it was much harder than I world’s best producers and famous The Kinks, Paul Simon, Stevie Wonder, They were both very eccentric but thought it would be; firstly finding artists. But I do this job for one reason David Bowie… Current artists that I brilliant teachers and very passionate talent early and then persuading them and that is that one day I might rate include Disclosure, London about what they did. When I felt a that you are the person that should actually find a band as brilliant as The Grammar and Tama Impala. I love teacher was properly engaged that guide their career. In the four years I Beatles. It’s an industry that is about listening to the radio but it does feel a inspired me. was there I signed a band that never people; their personalities and bit like waiting for exam results. It is released a record and a girl that I creativity - that is a very special thing. great when you hear one of your Louis lives in London, is married realised (after signing) had got a artists but it’s a killer when you hear to Laura and has two young boys, session singer to sing on her demo My most special experience was something you have passed on! Max and Jackson. tape! Much of what I learnt really recording with Tom Jones in Bath. came from watching other peoples’ Watching him in the studio singing Who should we be successes, in particular Simon with legendary producer Ethan Johns looking out for? launching Westlife. really was a high point. Watching the Sam Smith is going to do well. He isn’t artists I work with winning Brits is on our label but he seems to be the But you still managed to great but I reckon watching Mumford most tipped person this year winning progress to a more and Sons and Ben Howard at The Brits Critics Choice and the BBC Getting a record deal does successful career… Glastonbury last year was one of the Sound Poll. I have signed an Irish not guarantee anything, Yes I moved on to Universal Music – I best moments of my career. singer called Hozier who I have high it’s just the beginning. was lucky that the Head of A&R liked hopes for. He’s like a modern day Van Only a handful of acts a me. In my last week at RCA a three- Is there such a thing as a Morrison. Incredibly talented and year ever really make it. piece pop band had come to see typical day in the office? completely authentic. Simon Cowell and he was very close to The job is very demanding. You have Louis (left) with offering them a deal. I immediately to be on top of your game all the time Ben Howard Mumford & Sons introduced them to my new boss at and it can be a very unforgiving 12 13 Old Stops’ Review | Music Masters Old Stops’ Review | Music Masters THE MOST One thing I recall about Douglas My main memory of Mr Verney, during Douglas Steele was a talented artist, Steele is that when something my time at the school (1942-1949), in the impressionist style. He had a happened that interrupted the lesson was of him writing ‘ABOMNIABLE’ [sic] wicked sense of humour, often playing MEMORABLE he used the phrase “the malevolence for Music on an otherwise fairly good ludicrously loud pieces of organ music of inanimate matter”. This phrase school report. My father congratulated at the end of morning prayers – much often comes to mind and reminds me me on this! to the amusement of the Sixth Form MUSIC of him when something unexpected Alan Lingard (OS 1949) and masters, if not the Headmaster. and unhelpful happens, without Glynn Wright obvious human intervention. A few years after I left SGS I was Clive J Griffiths (OS 1969) home visiting my parents in Hazel The fervour and passion that Geoff MASTERS Grove. I happened upon Douglas Verney put into the preparations for Doug Steele was a wonderful Steele who recognised me and asked the Founder’s Day service. Standing character. A few examples: what I was doing. I told him that I was at the piano in the hall, he put so • playing the Wurlitzer at Speech Day an RAF pilot flying Vulcan bombers. To much fervour into hitting the A request for stories about Douglas Steele arising from below the floor, all bells my utter surprise he told me he had keyboard, he declared later, that he and whistles employed been aircrew in the RAF during the had brought blood to his fingertips! and Geoffrey Verney prompted an overwhelming response • giving me the opportunity to sing in Second World War. He said he had John M Tattum (OS 1957) from many who were taught by them. We were inundated with anecdotes the choir; fish and chips after each been a Wireless Operator/Air Gunner and memories of these teachers who evidently made a lasting impression Carol Service, with the Boar’s Head in Bomber Command and had done I first knew Geoffrey Verney through Carol to be sung as the chips slightly more than three tours. This is his work with the school choir. I on all whom they taught. emerged more than ninety missions over enemy remember one day when we were • Jacques Loussier on the music room territory and that he had requested rehearsing a very quiet piece, he said: Geoffrey Verney joined the school Here is a selection of excerpts from One Monday my form was waiting for hifi while browsing comics not to take less stressful appointments “And you can tell your vulgar parents in 1943 from Cheltenham College, your recollections. Many thanks to all the bell to go, and we were getting a • demonstrating how he set himself at the end of each tour that was the not to rustle their service sheets while having previously worked with the those who got in touch and apologies bit restless and noisy to the extent the target of guiding and inserting norm but just to carry on with his you are singing this.” likes of great British composer, to anyone whose memories we were that we disturbed one of his music his door-key starting at his garden next tour without a break. J Martin Stafford (OS 1967) Ralph Vaughan Williams. During unable to include. The full versions can sessions. Verney stormed across the gate, arm outstretched his time at the school he also ran be found on the website and there is top landing and into our form room in I failed Music O Level but gained a From what I have read and talked over One of Douglas’s favourite phrases, his own choir at St George’s also a booklet of the stories in the a terrifying rage. We were individually lifetime’s love of music, singing, with veterans of that time the casualty when asking you to do something was Church, Poynton. He retired in Archive. Please get in touch if you offered the choice of being kept in playing and listening. rate in Bomber Command in WW2 was ‘for reasons best known to myself’. 1962, passing on the title of Music wish to visit. after school for four days or being Thank you, Dougie. such that it was rare to finish one tour When I was learning the organ under Master to his successor, Douglas beaten by the Junior School Dave J Longson (OS 1970) let alone three plus. I never asked Mr Verney, I arrived at the organ loft Steele, who had been made Geoffrey and Douglas were patient Headmaster. One brave soul opted for him but I would imagine that he would one day to discover a little note Assistant Music Master in 1946, and kindly men, well able to tolerate the beating, and was duly sent off to One of my most vivid memories from have been awarded a gallantry medal attached to the manuals, in Douglas’s coming from Lancaster Royal and correct our occasional indiscipline; be thrashed, while the rest of us 1953 or 54, and I am not quite sure of some kind after that long on hand, reading ‘Please do not use the … Grammar School, where he was a indeed they were a fine complement cravenly submitted to the detentions which of them organised it, was operations. stop’ (I can’t remember which stop music teacher after being invalided to each other, Geoffrey assuming the - which in fact were never enforced as singing on the radio. Eight of us were Jon Goddard (OS 1962) was placed under the embargo). out of the RAF in 1944. He had part of “unpredictable eccentric” to we made a collective apology to him. selected to sing The Lost Chord on a There followed in small print the attended the Royal Manchester Douglas’s “refined academic”. I have Kenneth Horne radio show. We spent My abiding memory of Mr Verney is letters ‘PTO’. On turning over the College of Music and had a no doubts about the quality of both Douglas Steele was an entirely most of the day at Wilmslow RAF of the whole school being trained to note, I read the immortal words “For prestigious musical career prior to men, as teachers and scholars. I different proposition, he took each station at the rehearsal session then in sing Christmas carols for the annual reasons best known to myself.” the war, when he was conscripted have not forgotten their lessons - form for a weekly music lesson. My the evening the show was performed service at St George’s. He was as a wireless operator. which says a lot. abiding memory is of trying to beat and recorded in front of an audience. determined that in God Rest You Geoff Verney was never afraid to take R John Bulcock (OS 1961) time on one of the tubular bells that Gordon Court (OS 1956) Merry Gentlemen, we should make unwelcome decisions. Steele had The two men are remembered as hung in the Music Room while Doug clear the word COMFORT and written a beautiful descant for the last being very different characters but Verney ran the formal music lessons played a short tune on the piano. As When Verney came in 1943 he offered definitely not COMFERT, of which verse of Christians Awake; after the both possessing an undeniable which generally consisted of listening I performed not too badly, I was School Certificate Music as a choice he was quite disdainful. last rehearsal for one carol service, passion for music and teaching. to some classical recordings followed rewarded with a postage stamp from but warned that with the limited time John Bewley (OS 1957) Geoff decided that the trebles were Where Doug Steele is described by questions and discussions. He was South Africa - he had a seemingly to prepare no one would pass so I just not good enough. He simply went by many as being a kindly, softly also the proud instigator of the new endless supply of these, unused and didn’t join. Imagine my reaction when On the subject of discipline I well out immediately before the Carol spoken teacher, Geoffrey Verney school organ in the Hallam Hall. One the lowest face value, but a treasured the four or five who did all gained recall Mr Steele overseeing detention Service and told the congregation is recollected as being more of a of its characteristics (according to acquisition for a young stamp collector. Distinctions or Credits! sessions and the naughty boys could that the descant would not be sung traditional schoolmaster with his Verney) was that it could not be R John Tacon (OS 1968) Chris H Wilcock (OS 1948) do more or less what they wanted and “because the trebles just aren’t up strict demeanour, though he still played at maximum power or it would even leave the room for a time. to it this year. Sorry, ladies and has a fond place in many an Old damage the structure of the Hall! I About halfway through the session he gentlemen, but there it is.” Stopfordian’s heart and is credited assume the Hall is still standing! would often say “Well I think that is Ian Hamilton (OS 1963) with much of the boys’ future Bryan Little (OS 1953) long enough” and off we went. musical successes. Philip Norcross (OS 1952)

14 15 Old Stops’ Review | SGS Highlights 2013-14 Old Stops’ Review | Stopping By

GODSPELL Remembrance Day Pupils enjoyed months of energetic SGS Highlights More than 80 Old Stops who left rehearsals to bring one of STOPPING BY - the school between 1930 and 1955 Broadway’s most enduring shows of came together at the annual school all time, Godspell right up to date 2013-14 Remembrance Service, where they For more news stories 1990s REUNION with a fresh and contemporary feel. joined pupils in singing hymns and The cast had a great time bringing visit the website. listened to readings before hearing the show together; their vigour and Old Stops, former members of staff, current staff, retirees and their families Lower Sixth Form pupil Ben Carthy enthusiasm came across in their RUGBY CALL-UPS gathered at the school on a scorching hot day last July, to enjoy a barbecue to play The Last Post. After the service, performances, with energetic dance Head Boy Tom Morton played for the mark the retirement of Carol Beckett, Jacques Metivier, Paul Ashcroft and Ros a group of pupils who had visited routines, catchy songs and plenty of England U18s and U19s Rugby squad, Scott. Old Stops who had attended the school during the nineties were also in the battlefields spoke about the trip moving drama – all of which resulted as they defeated Australia 23-3 at attendance. and the Jazz Band provided musical in a sell-out run across four nights Harrow School. In addition to his entertainment before the guests and rave reviews on our Facebook playing for England and the SGS First Old friends caught up, reminisced and got to meet partners, spouses and enjoyed a special reunion lunch. and Twitter pages. XV, Tom also plays for Sale Sharks in children too. And while the grown-ups chatted and enjoyed the food and drink, the Aviva Premiership U18s league. He against a soundtrack of nineties tunes, the kids had a great time on the bouncy This year we will be extending a Head of Drama Alison Moffatt said: is keen to take his rugby further and is castle and eating ice creams. warm welcome to leavers up to OS “The show focused on community looking forward to a South Africa tour 1960. Invitations will be sent out and what connects us as human this summer with the England squad. Inside, providing respite from the sun, guests were able to look at displays of in the Autumn Term. beings, not only in terms of what the Fly-half Tom said, “Since being selected photos and yearbooks from the 1990s. The retiring teachers were celebrated audience sees but in a real sense for the England teams, my self-belief over shared memories of their time at SGS. A great time was had by all and Oxbridge Dinner the popularity of the event paves the way for more events like this in the for the cast and crew. This has truly has definitely grown. The support from Forty guests attended the annual future, hopefully with similarly lovely weather! been realised through our months school has been brilliant all the way black tie dinner at Hertford College, working together.” through – I get lots of encouragement Oxford over the May Bank Holiday from everyone at SGS.” weekend. Past pupils, current staff and governors joined current More SGS boys have also represented play for the U16s; and George undergraduates for an evening of their district with James Gilboy playing Chatterton, Alex Jones and Will good food and conversation. for the North of England U18s and Ogden have been selected for the Cheshire U18s alongside Tom the Cheshire U15s. James, Louis, Shaa Society Lunch O’Mahony and Mark Ray. Will Jones George and both Toms have all been The tradition of the Shaa Lunch for has been selected for the Cheshire picked for the Sale Sharks Elite legators and current donors brought U17s; Tom Power and Louis Jones Player Development Group. supporters of the school together in the Hallam Hall for a beautiful lunch HOCKEY on the day before Founder’s Day. With several hockey players picked for Donors and legators are also invited England squads and training programmes each May to an exclusive evening and the First XI and the U13s progressing reception and tour of the annual Art in national championships, it’s been a fine exhibitions. If you are interested in season for SGS hockey. joining the Shaa Society or donating to the Bursary Fund, please contact Emily Spencer and Holly Hunt have Rachel Horsford, Director of External played for the England U18s, while Holly’s Relations on 0161 419 2408. younger sister, 15 year-old Lauren, has been selected for England U16s. OSA Dinner Old Stops gathered for an evening Meanwhile, Proud of Stockport Award of food, conversation and memories The Little Mermaid winner Meghan Myers has been of the past at the Founder’s Day The Junior School’s ambitious Year 6 selected for England Hockey’s Advanced dinner in the Hallam Hall. Organised production, Disney’s The Little Mermaid Apprenticeship in Sport Excellence travelled to Cannock Hockey Club as annually by the OSA Committee the was a huge success. programme along with fellow SGS pupil the first ever Stockport Grammar dinner always provides an excellent Maya Gordon. hockey team to reach a National Final opportunity to catch up with old Featuring a large cast, colourful in the U13s age group. friends. This year’s event also saw costumes and popular songs, the show Lower down the school, the U13s squad School Archivist, and former Head is an adaptation of Disney’s Broadway finished third in the National Schools Last but not least, the First XI hockey of Art Stuart Helm (OS 1964) production. Strong performances from Mini Hockey Championships finals. squad qualified for the National Finals presented with a Distinguished Life the lead characters, made for a very The girls had successfully progressed of the Schools Championships for Member Award. enjoyable show for both the audience through the Greater Manchester, Girls after a magnificent performance and the cast and a perfect way to round north-west and north rounds of the saw them win the North of England off their time in the Junior School. competition earlier in the year, and title in Leeds.

16 17 Old Stops’ Review | Stopping By Old Stops’ Review | Announcements A Trip KITEBOARDER Announcements DROPS IN Down In memory

Memory Ian P Chadwick (OS 1957) John B Davies (OS 1963) Lane 1st February 2014 26th January 2013 Eric Minshall (OS 1940) David Rakestraw (OS 1954) Former Head of History Nick Henshall 29th October 2013 28th January 2013 (OS 1964) visited the school with a *Obituaries can be found on the group of his contemporaries during Keith F Turner (OS 1952) Old Stops section of the website. the Summer Term of 2013. They 17th June 2013 enjoyed a light lunch in the Governors’ Dr George Yule (OS 1946) Room followed by a tour of the school, 26th September 2013 where they reminisced about their Marriages time here as well as marvelling at the Ernest Jackson “Jack” Cockroft Imogen Sorrell (OS 2007) to Savvas Koufou on 28th new developments in the Woodsmoor (OS 1932) building. Kiteboarder and filmmaker James December 2013 in Cape Town, Boulding (OS 2003) returned to Walter Raymond South Africa. school to speak to pupils about his “Ray” Hadfield (OS 1944) exhilarating lifestyle during a careers 23rd August 2013 Sarah Stone (OS 2004) to Remembering talk with a difference. Dan Potts on 17th May 2014 250 Ken Clough (OS 1955)* at St Paul’s Cathedral. As well as showing pupils his kiting 25th May 2013 the Holocaust equipment, James explained that it RETIREMENTS Club James Stanley Ward (OS 1953) wasn’t just the countless outdoor Paul Ashcroft 1990 - 2013 The school’s musicians are extremely Professor David Lupton (OS 1963), along with his wife Gail and associate Joan 6th May 2013 activities at Stockport Grammar Dr Jacques Metivier 1980 - 2013 grateful to the OSA 250 Club for Chantrell visited the school over two days to speak to Fourth Year Religious Studies that have helped him, but that Carol Beckett 1989 - 2013 their generous donation of forty classes as well as giving a lunchtime talk which was open to pupils from the Fourth Alan Norman Smith (OS 1947)* Mathematics, which he went on to Ros Scott 1984 - 2013 embroidered music stand banners, Year to Upper Sixth Form. 3rd May 2013 study at Newcastle University, enables which were proudly displayed at all him to work out wind directions. Fred Bellingall (OS 1950) four of the pupils’ concerts on last Professor Lupton recently received the Federal Service Cross from the President Tell us your James also writes for magazines about summer’s Barcelona Music Tour. of Germany for his work in the Stolperstein project, commemorating Nazi victims J Brian Wilshaw (OS 1944) the sport, ensuring that he develops a good news in Gelnhausen, where he has lived since 1980. Fourth Year pupil Seun Odusanya 22nd December 2012 career outside of the water too. We always like to hear if you’ve found his talk very interesting: “I knew about the historic side of the Holocaust The banners replace the previous got married or had a baby – and Peter Clay (OS 1949) stock of covers and have since been but he really gave us the people’s point of view. I like that the Stolpersteins As well as being one of the world’s we love to see photos too! used at all of the department’s represent every victim as an individual and it is interesting how this project has 2nd February 2013 biggest names in kiteboarding, it is performances outside school. become global and they are finding people all over the world who had relatives James’s film-making that helps him Email externalrelations@ that died in the Holocaust”. make a living from the sport. The stockportgrammar.co.uk The OSA 250 Club provides a great videos he films and edits for kite opportunity to win a cash prize while manufacturers and sponsors receive contributing towards special purchases hundreds of thousands of views online. for the school, such as the banners and hockey masks. See the 250 Club page on the school website to enter for as little as £2.17 per month. MAILI MOVES ON

Congratulations to Maili Lavin (OS helping Old Stops to re-connect with 2008) on her new appointment in old friends and school day memories. marketing and communications at We wish her well as her career Mosscare Housing Trust. progresses.

Following her English degree at We will shortly announce our plans Birmingham University, Maili returned for the new Alumni post, but in the to SGS in 2012 as Alumni Assistant, a meantime, Vivienne Arrowsmith and graduate internship which focussed on Rachel Horsford would be very pleased developing links with and between Old to hear from you with your news and Stops. We thank Maili for all her work OS updates. on social media and events and for

18 19 DATES FOR YOUR DIARY keep in

Golf Day 1964 Reunion touch Thursday 12th June 2014 On Friday 26th September we This popular annual Bursary Appeal shall be welcoming back all those Old There are lots of ways you can keep in Fundraiser takes place at Stockport Boys who left in 1964. You are warmly touch with old classmates and teachers Golf Club. The cost for a team of four invited to join us for lunch and a tour as well as seeing what is going on at is £400 and includes lunch, dinner and of the school. An evening meal at SGS now... a full-colour advert in the programme. the Alma Lodge Hotel is also being There are many other ways you can arranged. Please contact Stuart Helm To share your memories and support the day even if you are for details: connect with fellow Old Stops, unable to attend, from sponsoring a [email protected]. ‘Like’ our Old Stopfordians hole, to advertising in the programme page on facebook or donating a raffle prize. If you would Were you a pupil like to get involved please call You can also join the Stockport Rebecca Taberner on 0161 419 2408 in the 1970s? Grammar School Alumni group If so, we would love to hear from you as soon as possible. on Linkedin with any memories or stories you may Summer Reunion wish to share – it could be something On Twitter our username about a particular teacher or a trip you On Saturday 28th June we are is @stockportgs went on. delighted to invite Old Stops from any year group back to school, with Visit the school website and click on We are also keen to organise a a special focus on those who left the Old Stopfordians section to read get-together for those Old Stops between 2000-2004. We very much about recent achievements and news who attended the school in that look forward to welcoming you back that we’ve been made aware of. decade in the near future, so please – it is a fantastic opportunity to meet do get in touch! up with old friends, take a trip down Or email your news to: memory lane and also see all the [email protected] exciting changes which have taken Ad hoc reunions During this year we have hosted a place at SGS. number of small groups who have wanted to visit the school. If you The event will run from 12-3pm and would like to pop back – for a tour, a includes a barbecue, drinks and tours We regularly gathering, to meet up with old friends of the school. Family and friends are help Old Stops to or teachers, please get in touch and very welcome and there is no charge we will endeavour to arrange re-find old friends and to attend. To request tickets, please something for you. we are always pleased email: to arrange visits [email protected] for you to look around school or the archives.

If you no longer wish to receive a copy of Old Stops’ Review, please let us know by emailing: [email protected]

STOCKPORT GRAMMAR SCHOOL

Stockport Grammar School Buxton Road Stockport SK2 7AF Telephone: 0161 456 9000 Email: [email protected] www.stockportgrammar.co.uk

Old Stops’ Review is produced by The External Relations Department and this issue was edited by Tamara Shneck.

We would like to thank all those who have contributed. If you would like to submit material for the 2015 edition or give any feedback on this one, please email [email protected] or call 0161 419 2408.

20Stockport Grammar School is a Registered Charity Number 1120199 Designed by www.jacksonhammond.co.uk