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On Monday 13 October, the ever-popular and eagerly anticipated annual House Singing Competition took place, marking the opening of this year’s House Music Competition. The afternoon saw an impressive standard of performances, with every House taking to the stage, and many incorporating inventive instrumental accompaniments and creative use of props.
This year’s adjudicator, Mr Oliver Walker, a renowned music educator, choral conductor and organist, praised the exceptionally high standard of singing across all Houses. Mr Walker has made music around the world, serving as Director of Music at Repton School (2016–2024) and Head of Choral Music at Solihull School (2010–2016). He now maintains a busy freelance portfolio as Director of Music at Douai Abbey, Choirmaster at Bure Abbey Schools, and Musical Director of both Jubilate Chamber Choir (Oxford) and Solihull Choral Society. Mr Walker studied Music as an Organ Scholar at Keble College, Oxford, before completing postgraduate study in Choral Conducting at the University of Birmingham.
After much deliberation, Mr Walker awarded the top six places as follows:
6th – Manor
5th – Gibbs’
4th – Sankey’s
3rd – Handford
2nd – Teme
1st – Field’s, who also received The House Singing Cup.
Each House brought creativity and individuality to the stage:
Manor opened the competition with a heartfelt rendition of All of Me by John Legend, showcasing beautiful harmonies and poise, particularly on those tricky high notes!
Second’s took the audience on a musical journey with Africa by Toto, earning plenty of smiles for their lively staging, which included a standout inflatable eagle costume.
Saint’s delivered a confident and stylish performance of Murder on the Dancefloor by Sophie Ellis-Bextor, full of charm and energy, and a fun dance break.
Sankey’s, the sixth House in the Lancing College family, cleverly chose Six from Six: The Musical, combining strong vocals with dynamic characterisation.
Teme impressed with a stunning rendition of Set Fire to the Rain by Adele, complete with harmonies, props, and emotional intensity - a performance that rightly earned them the Most Improved Performance award.
Head’s fully committed to a joyous production of Happy by Pharrell Williams, complete with full Minion costumes and accents, which delighted their audience of peers and faculty.
Gibbs’ impressed with a suave and sophisticated version of My Way by Frank Sinatra. From their bowler hats and bow ties, to the powerful final crescendo, their performance was dapper in every sense!
Handford moved the audience with a soulful production of Blinded by Your Grace by Stormzy, demonstrating impressive ensemble control and emotional depth.
School House closed the competition with an energetic and inventive performance of Copacabana by Barry Manilow, complete with a lively narrative dance routine.
But the top spot this year ultimately went to Field’s, who delivered a highly inventive interpretation of Wings by Little Mix. They combined rich harmonies, solos, a cappella sections, a student ensemble of piano and two cellos, and creative body percussion for a truly memorable performance.
The House Singing Competition marked a superb start to this year’s musical calendar. Still to come are the Rock and Pop Concert on 11 December, followed by three closing House Music Competition shows taking place in January and February of the new year.