On Monday this week we held our annual Singing Competition. There was an impressive breadth of talent across the Lower School, Middle School, and Upper School. Participants performed in two distinct categories: Art Song and Musical Theatre. Adjudicated by David Revels, James Grimsey, and Louise Crane, the event showcased the dedication and musicality of our young singers. Their performances spanned from classic art songs to iconic musical theatre numbers. Accompanists Ewan Stockwell, John Mountford, Cason Kang, and Inga Liukaityte provided sensitive and skilled support throughout the competition.
The Lower School performances began in the Bowes Room. Safi secured both the Art Song and Musical Theatre category wins. Georgia was named runner-up in Musical Theatre, while Jemima received a Highly Commended award. The programme included some well-loved pieces, including selections from Matilda the Musical, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, and Frozen, alongside traditional folk and art songs. The young singers displayed confidence and a love for their craft.
In the Middle School competition, held in both the Bowes Room and Old Hall, Charlie emerged as the winner of the Musical Theatre category, with Lander as runner-up. The Art Song category was won by Holly, with Poppy taking second place. Performers presented a diverse programme, featuring works by Fauré, Quilter, Vaughan Williams, and Brahms in the Art Song category, while Musical Theatre performances included numbers from Newsies, Les Misérables, and Cabaret. The competition was fiercely contested, with each singer demonstrating both technical skill and emotional connection to their chosen repertoire.
The Upper School competition, held in the Chapel, saw exceptional performances across both categories. Lily won the Musical Theatre category, with Eloise as runner-up. Tomas took the top prize in Art Song, with Evie in second place. Upper School participants delivered a compelling programme, featuring works by Mozart, Finzi, Wolf, and Ireland in Art Song, and selections from Sweeney Todd, The Phantom of the Opera, and Waitress in Musical Theatre. Their performances reflected not only technical prowess but also a deep engagement with the text and music.
The overall winners of the competition were Charlie for Musical Theatre and Evie for Art Song, with Tomas receiving the Promising Young Singer award.
This year’s Singing Competition was a testament to the remarkable vocal talent within the school. The participants performed with confidence and artistry, supported by superb accompaniment and insightful adjudication. The event inspired students to refine their craft and share their love of singing, promising a bright future for vocal music.
