Winter Concert Strikes A Chord

Last night, the roof of the Shiplake Sports Hall was well and truly raised as pupils and teachers alike performed in the annual Winter Concert.

Thursday 23 November saw the return of the Shiplake College Winter Concert, an occasion that celebrates our talented singers, performers and musicians. Members of the audience were treated to renditions of popular favourites such as Rule The World, originally by Take That but wonderfully performed by the Lower School Choir. The Year 12 BTEC Band covered Coldplay’s Christmas Lights, which was sung brilliantly by Livvy Ferguson and Ben Atkin, who also played the guitar, and later in the evening played drums as well!

A star was born when Charlie Thomas and Stranded performed The Foo Fighters' Times Like These. Not only was it sung exceptionally well by himself and Michael Scanlon, Charlie brought charisma to the stage with his larger than life characterisation of Dave Grohl. At the same time, his bandmates strummed and drummed while the audience happily hummed. Young Mr Thomas may just be one to watch!

The Camerata beautifully sang The Lord Is My Shepherd and Christmas Time Is Here, and collectively warmed the cockles of every member of the audience. We Wish You A Merry Christmas, fantastically harmonised by the Shiplake Community Choir, was also a firm favourite to get the festive juices flowing.

The First Eight induced goosebumps when they sang Steal Away, written by Wallace Willis some time before 1862. The song portrays a message of faith in God but also makes reference to liberation from slavery. Regardless of its message, Mr Paul Jones conducted the boys tremendously to produce a masterpiece.

Special commendations must go to Will Mandondo and Darcy Timms, who brilliantly executed Christmas classic Baby, It’s Cold Outside. Their coordination and on-stage chemistry made, not only for a great listen, but also for an overall sublime performance. Shortly after, a minor hiccup from Danny Seymour was quickly forgotten as his charisma and character displayed true ‘the show must go on’ spirit.

Finally, it was the turn of the Lower School Choir, who have been practicing for weeks, according to Director of Music Mr Curran. It was clear to see that the boys had rehearsed as their rendition of Take That’s Rule The World was an utter show stopper. After several short solos, the collective voices of the Year 7 and 8 pupils was enough to reduce a grown man to tears!

After the evening’s performances, Headmaster Gregg Davies spoke about the importance of comradeship and team spirit, before inviting the School’s guests to the OVR for some mince pies and mulled wine. If the audience weren’t ready for Christmas beforehand, they most certainly are now!