Spring Concert 2026

The Sports Hall was filled with excitement and outstanding musicianship on Thursday 26 March as pupils and staff came together for the Spring Concert 2026. Showcasing performers from Year 7 through to the Upper Sixth, the evening was a joyful celebration of the depth, diversity 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 beautifully for what was to come. The concert was expertly 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 audience laughing between performances.

Big Band officially 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 sound, with Will Griffith delivering a standout vocal performance that matched the ensemble’s infectious energy. Next, the Year 8 Choir gave a charming and eloquent rendition of Pompeii by Bastille. Excellent harmonies and confident performances from the choir made for a polished and 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 Thompson 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 and charming performance demonstrated impressive progress and gave them a valuable opportunity to perform for a large audience. The energy quickly lifted again with Highliners, 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. A moment of elegance followed from the Sax Ensemble, whose rendition of Oblivion by Astor Piazzolla perfectly encapsulated the themes of rebirth and renewal. The ensemble performed with wonderful synchronicity and expression.

Horizon brought a stylish edge with their sophisticated version of Muse’s Starlight, 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 particularly! Little Big Band returned for their second concert appearance, performing 'Happy' by Pharrell Williams. Featuring pupils from Lower School and Sixth Form, they embodied the collaborative Shiplake spirit.

The Year 7 Choir impressed with their confident handling 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. Well done to 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, and 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