Spring Concert 2026

On Thursday 26 March, the Sports Hall was buzzing with excitement as pupils and staff came together for the Spring Concert 2026. Showcasing performers from Year 7 right through to the Upper Sixth, the evening was a joyful celebration of the diversity, depth and talent within Shiplake College’s music department.

As the audience took their seats, they were welcomed by an original composition, Spring, written by Xander Fox (Year 8). Played through the speakers, the piece perfectly captured the feeling of the season — joyful yet reflective — and set the stage for what was to come. The concert was hosted by Seb Crehan‑Mills and Elliot Jones, whose sharp, witty and entertaining introductions set a relaxed and humorous tone for the evening. Their natural rapport and occasional off‑script moments kept the mood light and entertaining between performances.

Big Band kicked off the live performances with two energetic numbers: Moondance by Van Morrison and Play That Funky Music by Rob Parissi. Full of punch and groove, the band filled the Sports Hall with electrifying sound, with Will Griffith delivering a standout vocal performance that matched the ensemble’s infectious energy. Next, the Year 8 Choir gave an eloquent rendition of Pompeii by Bastille. Excellent harmonies and confident performances from the choir made for a uplifting moment in the programme.

The Wind Ensemble, made up of pupils and staff, followed with a bold and confident take on Industry Baby by Lil Nas X. Their loud, proud and punchy interpretation transformed the popular anthem into something uniquely their own. Slowing the pace without losing momentum, The Blumfield 5 delivered a soothing performance of If I Ain’t Got You by Alicia Keys. Fronted by Bethan Thompson on lead vocals, the band brought warmth and emotion to the stage. A powerful highlight of the evening came from the Camerata, whose moving performance of Adiemus by Karl Jenkins held the room in complete silence. With Bethan once again leading vocally, the performance was both atmospheric and deeply emotive.

Our youngest musicians then took centre stage, with the Year 7 Orchestra performing Bubblegum by Alan Pring. Their enthusiastic performance demonstrating what they had learnt so far, and gave them a valuable opportunity to perform for a large audience. Highliners were next who delivered the country‑pop classic Man! I Feel Like a Woman by Shania Twain. Amelia Holden was effortlessly confident on lead vocals, while Johnny Pearson’s lead guitar work added flair and polish. Sax Ensemble followed, whose rendition of Oblivion by Astor Piazzolla perfectly encapsulated the springtime themes of birth and renewal. The ensemble performed with wonderful synchronicity and expression.

Horizon brought a stylish edge with their sophisticated version of Muse’s Starlight with Arabella May on lead vocals and piano, before the Chorus treated the audience to two contrasting pieces - a tranquil and moving Danny Boy by Bob Chilcott, followed by a lively and joyful performance of One Direction’s Best Song Ever, which the teachers appeared to enjoy singing more than the pupils! Little Big Band returned for their second concert appearance, performing 'Happy' by Pharrell Williams. Featuring pupils from Lower School and Sixth Form, they perfectly embodied the collaborative Shiplake spirit.

The Year 7 Choir impressed with their rendition of Viva La Vida by Coldplay, leading neatly into a show‑stopping moment from Inki. A familiar favourite at Shiplake concerts, George Watson captivated the hall with Purple Rain by Prince and Can’t Stop by Red Hot Chili Peppers - even persuading Headmaster Mr Tyrone Howe to join in for a moment, much to the audience’s delight. A touching and intimate moment followed from Amelia Holden, who performed her original song Our Past while accompanying herself on piano. Her pitch‑perfect and poetic performance was akin to to singer‑songwriter Adele.

The concert closed in style with Rare Groove, whose set included Bad Bad News by Leon Bridges, The Plankton Blues by K.O. Arting and Deep Down by Ella Eyre. A superb ensemble performance, with soloists Jack Dagg, Amelie and Bethan all shining.

To conclude the evening, Mr Tyrone Howe thanked all performers and paid special tribute to the Upper Sixth students, for whom this was their penultimate Shiplake concert. Describing the evening as 'A jolt of adrenaline', he reflected on music’s ability to transport audiences and praised the extraordinary range of talent on display.

Sincere thanks go to the technical crew for transforming the Sports Hall an ensuring the performances ran smoothly, and espicially to Mrs Amy Haynes and Mr Jasper Elliott for their tireless work preparing such a high‑quality programme.

Please enjoy the video highlights and photos below from what was a truly memorable evening of music at Shiplake College.

Flickr album: Spring Concert 2026 | Height: auto | Theme: Default | Skin: Default Skin