An evening of remarkable music and talent at the 2026 Spring Concert
The 2026 Spring Concert brought families, friends, governors and staff together in St George’s Church to listen to a range of ensembles perform music worthy of the spectacular surroundings.
The evening opened with a vibrant performance from the String Orchestra, who set the tone with ‘John Ryan’s Polka’ (arr. Martin). Their lively playing was followed by a contrasting pair of movements from Antonio Vivaldi’s ‘Concerto for Strings in D’. The ensemble captured the gentle elegance of the ‘Largo’ before launching into the bright and energetic ‘Allegro’, highlighting the group’s versatility and control.
Next up was the Junior Chamber Choir, offering a beautifully varied programme of four pieces. They began with Cristi Cary Miller’s uplifting ‘A Joyful Sanctus’, before performing two works by Emily Crocker: the spirited ‘Exsultate Justi’ and the atmospheric ‘Hear The Wind’. Their set concluded with Jacob Narverud’s ‘Sisi Ni Moja’, a joyful celebration of unity and togetherness that resonated warmly with the audience.
The First Orchestra followed with an impressive performance of Berkeley’s arrangement of the first movement of Francis Poulenc’s ‘Flute Sonata (i. Allegro Moderato)’, featuring a poised and expressive solo by Dan Wood. Their set concluded with a dynamic and theatrical interpretation of Leonard Bernstein’s ‘West Side Story’ Selections for Orchestra’, bringing iconic melodies to life with colour and flair.
After the interval, the Chamber Choir delivered a rich programme accompanied by Mr Olly Hamilton on piano. They opened with John Rutter’s powerful arrangement of ‘Joshua Fit The Battle Of Jericho’, followed by another Rutter classic, ‘Steal Away’, featuring a beautifully delivered solo from Rosie Moore. The choir then shifted into the timeless charm of George Gershwin with Althouse’s arrangement of ‘Nice Work If You Can Get It’, spotlighting solos from Amelie Manson and Charlotte Sullivan. Their set concluded with Hayes’ vibrant arrangement of Gershwin’s ‘I Got Rhythm’, sending energy and smiles rippling through the hall.
The Wind Orchestra then offered a commanding performance of ‘Chaconne from First Suite in Eb’ by Gustav Holst. Their precision and ensemble balance were on full display. They followed with ‘Laudate’, an exciting work composed by the school’s own music teacher, Mr Stephen Newlove, making the moment especially meaningful for performers and audience alike.
To close the evening, Chorus presented five movements from Bob Chilcott’s ‘Little Jazz Mass’: ‘Kyrie’, ‘Gloria’, ‘Sanctus’, ‘Benedictus’, and ‘Agnus Dei’. This rhythmic, soulful work featured dynamic contributions from Sixth Former Will Harvey on drums, Mr Hamilton on piano, and Mrs Joanne Matthews on double bass.
Their performance brought the concert to a triumphant and uplifting conclusion.
