A Joyful Celebration of Talent at the Easter Concert 2026

Pictured L-R: Ms Hinchliffe, Jethro, Immie & Mr Dorney
This year’s Easter Concert was a vibrant and uplifting showcase of the school’s musical community, and a particularly special evening as it marked the first major concert under our new Head of Music, Ms Rachel Hinchliffe. From solo recitals to full ensemble performances, the night was filled with energy, emotion, and outstanding musicianship.
In a change to the usual format, the concert opened and continued through the interval with performances from talented Buskers: Bethan and Isaac, who played some beautiful pieces as background music.
Two of our most dedicated musicians, Year 13s Immie and Jethro, delivered their A Level recital performances. Both students have taken part in every school concert for the last five years, and their final concert was a fitting celebration of their commitment.
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Immie delivered a powerful and moving performance of “Out There” from The Hunchback of Notre Dame, demonstrating exceptional vocal control and emotion.
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Jethro, performing on tenor saxophone, captivated the audience with a beautifully expressive rendition of “Tenderly” by Chet Baker.
The Choir, accompanied by the brilliant Josh Marsh on piano, offered two uplifting pieces: “Lean On Me” by Bill Withers and “Feeling Good” - a song which, according to choir teacher Catherine Smith, reflects exactly how she feels every morning she rehearses with the ensemble.
Other notable performances came from:
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the Junior Guitar Group, led by James Kendrick, brought classic rock to the stage with a lively performance of “Sweet Home Alabama” by Lynyrd Skynyrd.
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the String Ensemble, directed by Jenny Heathcote, showcased their musicality with a selection from P. Warlock’s Capriol Suite.
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Adding a burst of nostalgia, Pins and Needles entertained the audience with their rendition of “Teenage Dirtbag” by Wheatus.
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The newly formed Sub-Crumb impressed the audience with their performance of “Au Pays” by Geese, marking a strong debut for the ensemble.
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Drumline, led by Mr Dorney made their presence unmistakable - as loud and spirited as ever - with “Samba de Janeiro” by Bellini.
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Barbieshop followed with a stunning a cappella arrangement of “Electric Love” by BØRNS, arranged by Year 13 student Immie, with Year 12 Marie providing impressive beatboxing throughout.
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The sixth form band SOOP!! kept the energy high with a vibrant performance of “Another Day of Sun” from La La Land, drawing enthusiastic applause.
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The Orchestra then took to the stage with a joyful medley of songs from Mamma Mia, filling the hall with Abba inspired cheer.
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Year 13 Tilly joined the Jazz Band to sing “Everybody Needs a Best Friend” (Murphy, McFarlane). The band then launched into “The Chicken” by Ellis, an upbeat favourite that brought back warm memories of their Netherlands tour last year.
A Heart Warming Finale
The evening came to a close with a schoolwide encore of “All You Need Is Love”, encouraging the audience to sing along. It was a perfectly fitting end; joyful, communal, and full of celebration.
Thank You
A huge thank you goes to all our performers, the tech team, and our dedicated peripatetic teachers, whose hard work makes our wide range of clubs and ensembles possible. And of course, congratulations to Ms Hinchliffe on her first Easter Concert - an inspiring start to an exciting new chapter for the Music Department.
Dance Showcase on 28th & 29th April
Creative Arts Festival on 15th & 16th July







