Written By Harroop Kaur Bhandal, Year 12
In the vibrant tapestry of Ribston Hall High School's musical landscape, a new constellation has emerged, illuminating the stage with talent and passion. Meet Anaesthesia, the electrifying band that's been rocking our halls since Autumn 2022.
Named after the song by Type O Negative, this group of Year 11 students is making waves with their dynamic performances and boundless enthusiasm. At the heart of Anaesthesia are four remarkable individuals, each bringing their own flair to the ensemble. Sasha Best, affectionately known as Sage, commands the bass and vocals, while Blanka Gradziel mesmerises with her guitar and vocals. Amelia Pecherek rocks on the guitar, and Oliwia Blozik keeps the beat alive on the drums.
Their journey into music is not just a pursuit of melody; it's a testament to the transformative power of music in the lives of teenagers. Music has long been recognised for its positive impact on mental health, offering solace, expression, and connection. Anaesthesia embodies this spirit, channelling their passion for music into a force for positivity and self-expression among their peers.
Anaesthesia burst onto the scene during the summer concert of 2023, where they lent their talents to accompany the chamber choir's rendition of "Bohemian Rhapsody." Since then, they've graced the stage at Ribston's Christmas concert, belting out hits like “Black sheep” by Metric to an appreciative audience. But Anaesthesia's talents extend beyond performance—they're also committed philanthropists. On February 9th, they spearheaded a rock concert in collaboration with the Ribston Rock Group, raising funds for an electric guitar for the music department. Their setlist was a veritable jukebox of classics, featuring songs by Foo Fighters, Metallica, Muse, Radiohead, Blur, and more. Behind every successful venture lies a guiding hand, and Anaesthesia is quick to credit Mrs. D Barnett for her unwavering support and invaluable assistance in planning and executing the concert.
Anaesthesia's journey is a testament to Ribston Hall's ethos of empowerment and encouragement. Our school fosters an environment where students are encouraged to step outside their comfort zones and pursue their passions, no matter how unconventional. It's this ethos that has fuelled Anaesthesia's rise to prominence and underscores Ribston's commitment to nurturing talent and fostering creativity. As Anaesthesia looks ahead to the future, their dedication to their craft is unwavering. With dreams of more performances and opportunities on the horizon, they embody the spirit of Ribston—confident, ambitious, and unafraid to chase their dreams. As they continue to inspire and entertain, they remind us all of the boundless possibilities that await when passion meets opportunity. So let's give a round of applause to Anaesthesia, Ribston's shining stars, and here's to many more electrifying performances to come!