Private School News

Blues Guitar Legend Otis Grand Thrills Sixth Form Students at Caterham School

Otis Grand, acknowledged recently by CNN as one of the greatest living blues guitarists, visited Caterham School on October 6th. He gave a talk to the Sixth Form, as part of the Sixth Form Forum programme which consists of a series of presentations by individuals who are leaders in their field. During the first part of the afternoon Otis spent time shedding light on the origins of Blues music in the deep south of the United States, and how it has evolved into the wide range of popular music we listen to now.

During the second part of the afternoon Otis performed unrehearsed with members of the Sixth Form, providing a master class in Blues guitar, improvisation, and playing straight from the heart.

Headmaster Julian Thomas said ‘’Although we have high academic standards we are very keen that pupils gain a wider perspective beyond their school life. We were very fortunate that Otis Grand, one of the great names in Blues, is so passionate about his subject and feels so strongly that it should be understood by the next generation. He has been voted the UK Blues Guitarist of the Year for seven consecutive years so it was a thrill for the students to hear his perspective on how this genre of music has played a role in history. Those students who were able to play on stage with him will probably talk about it for the rest of their lives.’’