More than 130 former pupils and colleagues gathered at Solihull to honour one of the school’s longest-serving teachers, Jill Godsall, and mark the opening of the Jill Godsall Recital Room. 

The Headmaster welcomed guests and highlighted some of Jill’s many achievements in her 60 year association with the school, including working under nine Headmasters and six Bursars and teaching over 1,500 students - as well as accompanying a similar number in examinations and recitals.

A ribbon cutting ceremony to officially open The Jill Godsall Recital Room in The David Turnbull Music School was followed by a ‘look back’ speech, from one of Jill’s most illustrious pupils Paul Hale (English organist and Organist Emeritus of Southwell Minster).  He recalled his lessons in the 1960’s, as did fellow musicians David Briggs and Laurence Cummings via video message.

Three current Solihull School pupils performed a short concert, which culminated in a piece for six hands – played by Jill, Solihull's Director of Music, Tim Kermode and Head of Strings, Hanlie Marten.

The proceedings finished with Jill unveiling a commemorative plaque, which reads “Admired and appreciated for inspiring teaching, loyalty and dedication to pupils, music and the school”.

Jill Godsall joined the Solihull music staff in 1954, finally retiring in 2014.