Forty Bermudian students travelled to the Northern New England Conference of Seventh-day Adventists’ annual Music Clinic – a transformative experience where music became a vehicle for faith, fellowship, and spiritual growth.

The clinic brought together youth aged 11 to 18 to participate in intense rehearsals and workshops in five categories: band, choir, youth choir, piano, and strings. Over two days of musical immersion, the students prepared for a final performance that not only showcased their growth but deepened their connection to the sacred.

But this was not just preparation for one concert. For the Bermuda Institute students, it was also a stepping stone towards their own upcoming “Spring Into Praise” concert, set for Monday, May 5 at 6.30pm in the school’s auditorium.

“Music gives my students a powerful way to express their faith – often in ways that traditional spiritual activities don’t,” said Dwayne Foster, head of the Humanities and Arts Department at Bermuda Institute, and director of both the band and steel pan ensembles.

“Whether it’s performing sacred pieces, composing their own music, or reflecting on the emotional depth of a song, students find a personal and meaningful connection to their beliefs.

"Music becomes a safe space where they can explore, celebrate, or even question their faith. It often brings a sense of community and shared purpose that strengthens those spiritual connections.”

For the students, the conference became a profound spiritual encounter.

One junior shared how singing with a new choir exposed him to unfamiliar but powerful styles of worship. “Although I’m not used to singing slower spirituals, the song Sign Me Up was beautiful and profound. Hearing all those new voices come together made me feel the music on a different level.”

A senior student was particularly struck by the hymn No Night There. “The song speaks of Heaven, where there’s no pain or crying. It was borne out of grief, and seeing it move the audience to tears reminded me just how powerful music can be.”

A sophomore recalled the finale: A Mighty Fortress Is Our God. “It was amazing to see everyone – singers and musicians – come together for one shared purpose. We were united, praising God as one.”

The students agreed that the trip offered something that neither a classroom nor Sabbath service could replicate.

“This kind of trip offers something deeper,” the sophomore added. “Being in a different environment helped me focus on God and connect with others. I was able to grow spiritually and build stronger relationships that I truly value.”

The junior added: “It was a fulfilling mix of fun, personal growth, and learning. We laughed, played basketball, and threw snowballs in the afternoons. Just being surrounded by people who shared our beliefs made the whole experience so much more meaningful.”

An M1 student echoed their sentiments: “It was different from school or church. I met so many people, and the involvement was deeper. This was an experience I’ll never forget.”

One concern before the trip was how students from such a wide age range – 11 to 18 – would connect. But the group quickly found its rhythm.

“I thought it would be difficult,” one student admitted. “But it ended up feeling like a trip with a big family. Having people from my own school gave me comfort in a new place.”

Another agreed: “Sharing this experience with 39 other students made it more special. Our friendships grew, not just with each other, but with students from all over. The bond we formed through music and worship is something I’ll carry with me.”

With the music clinic behind them, students are eagerly preparing to share what they’ve learnt at their upcoming Spring Into Praise concert on May 5. The public are invited to experience the joy, unity, and faith that continues to resonate through every note.

Owen Simons, vice-principal and choir/music teacher, and Kimberlee Tankard, director of institutional advancement, reflected on the students' journey: “It warms our hearts to see how much our students have grown during the music clinic. They poured their hearts into learning this new repertoire, and their dedication shines through. We are truly looking forward to the concert, and the students are excited to share their talents.

“More than just a performance, this has been a journey of teamwork and collaboration. When we work together, supporting each other's strengths, we create something truly beautiful.

“It's my deepest hope that those who attend will not only enjoy the music but also catch a glimpse of the heart of Christian education – the unity, the faith, and the love that binds us together. We anticipate sharing our praise through music with everyone who comes.”

• Tickets for the Spring into Praise concert can be purchased at gpass.bm or the school office