Shiplake’s Music Department is going from strength to strength; more and more pupils are taking up an instrument and becoming involved in the vibrant life of the department. Recently, Director of Music Mr Richard Curran organised Shiplake’s very first ‘unplugged’ gig, which saw several performers from the Sixth Form perform original songs and covers in the Lecture Theatre, in an informal and relaxed environment.
Angus Munro, Marcus de Pretis, Quin Wagner-Piggott, Seb Rivett, Callum Brady, James Grundy, Justin Janse van Vuuren and Tom Ibbitson took to the stage to perform, with many of them playing the guitar and singing. The group performed a selection of pop and rock song covers, including Oasis’ Wonderwall and Kings of Leon Someone Like You. James Grundy performed two songs, for which he had written the music and the lyrics himself. The performers were joined onstage by a surprise guest – Mr Aled Elmore! Mr Elmore also played the guitar, and regaled the audience with two of his own songs to close the concert. It was a fabulous evening, allowing audience the chance to enjoy a high-level of musical talent, in a relaxed setting. Mr Curran commented: ‘this concert was a first for us, as a lot of our concerts are quite formal and structured. It was great to be able to encourage musicians to play in an informal concert, allowing them experience of playing or giving them the spotlight if they don’t normally partake in musical activities.’ Please see the video below for highlights of the concert.
The Music Department did not stop there, holding a Lunchtime Concert recently. Some performers returned to the stage; Tom Ibbitson, James Grundy and Quin Wagner-Piggott were joined by Artem Sokolov, Anthony Adamson and Ollie Dorrell. For some, it was their first Lunchtime Concert, and all of the pupils performed beautifully. A packed audience crowded the Lecture Theatre, and enjoyed such songs as Oasis’ Don’t Look Back the Anger and Adele’s Skyfall. A range of instruments were played, including the piano and the guitar, and it was a lovely interlude to a busy Friday afternoon.
