Originally Posted by Wilber Winterbottom

Truthfully Wilber had not given much thought towards the content of orchestra this year with other events running fresh through his mind. “I am open for inspiration” he replied to Dhruv. He was fond of the traditional but there was nothing to say that a little modernism couldn’t be injected into the repertoire as requested.

Oh Merlin’s hairy beard, Wilber was going to have to come up with an extremely clever pun next occasion as his staff had too much of a knack for guessing the punchline. “That’s the one!” he chortled at Celeste, cheeks pinking and stomach wobbling as he laughed at his own joke. “Their hexpiration date” he continued chortling to himself whilst slapping his thigh. He thought that was one of his better ones too.

The sorting appeared to be going along swimmingly which was always a relief to the aging man. He’d often found himself impressed by the accuracy in which their dear old friend the Sorting Hat could comb through the students and assign them to the appropriate house but there was no more time to dwell on these thoughts as a collective rumble of bellies seemed to echo through the Great Hall and the Headmaster stood in preparation for his speech.

“Salutations to another year in our fine establishment and to those who have just joined us today, a gargantuan welcome to Hogwarts. Before we unleash the feast upon your hungry tummies, I must explain a few changes you may see before you.

With the departure of Professor DeVries last term, we should put our hands together to welcome Professor Phlour to our Herbology position and congratulate both Professor Khanna for their new role as Groundskeeper and Professor Fergersnout for her promotion to Hufflepuff Head of House. Professor Adara has also agreed to step into the Flying Instructor role for our first years and remedial students. We expect you to treat them kindly and respectfully as they establish themselves in their new positions.

From new beginnings to old traditions, it is an exciting year for our beloved Hogsmeade village as they celebrate their 1200th anniversary. As is customary, students with permission will be granted access to our neighbouring Wizarding village only with such an important occasion it may be busier than it has been previously.

Now with all those formalities out of the way, it is time to enjoy the wonderful feast our hard-working elves have prepared for us. Enjoy your evening whilst it lasts but don’t stay up too late greeting your acquaintances, a full school day awaits us tomorrow.”

The Headmaster clapped his hands twice as a wonderful array of culinary dishes magically appeared along the center of each table. And perhaps the most excited for them all to engorge on the food was Winterbottom himself as he settled back into his seat.