Pupils Take to the Stage for the 2025 Band Showcase
On 25 March, pupils from across the College took to the stage for the annual Band Showcase – an evening that celebrated musical talent in all its forms. From classical to jazz, rock to Disney classics, the evening served to highlight the depth and variety of music-making form the young musicians we’re lucky to have at Lancing.
Concert Band opened the evening with Bizet’s Jeux d’Enfants. The comedic Marche set a lively tone, and a particular highlight was Ian L’s flute solo in Duo, delicately played to capture the charm of Petit Mari, Petite Femme. The energetic Galop – Le Bal followed, performed with great flair. Next came a beautiful rendition of a medley from Beauty and the Beast, filled with cinematic warmth and just enough Disney sparkle ahead of the upcoming Disneyland Paris trip.
Enoch L conducted all of Concert Band’s pieces with confidence and finesse. He was followed by Tom C, who delivered a stirring solo performance of Black by Pearl Jam. His expressive vocals brought the lyrics to life, echoing through Great School and showing the full range of his voice.
Grace S and Isaac H followed with a captivating violin and accordion duet. Having previously won the Instrumental Duet category in the House Music Competition with this piece, their performance was both characterful and memorable.
Honk! gave an energetic performance of Gershwin’s Prelude No.1, showcasing strong ensemble playing and the unique sound of each saxophone. The next piece, Highlights from Mary Poppins, was a nostalgic medley, played with warmth and enthusiasm. The fast-paced finale brought the first half to a thrilling close.
The Rock Bands opened with Albatross by Fleetwood Mac, offering a moment of calm with their smooth, laid-back sound. Is It a Crime followed, with Angie K impressing the audience with her soulful vocals. Figure It Out and Alive brought an electrifying close to the set – powerful performances that had the audience dancing in their seats!
In the second half, the stage transformed into a jazz club as Big Band performed a thrilling programme, beginning with Mission: Impossible. The brass sections emphasised the dramatic theme, and Eddie A’s standout trumpet solo brought the iconic tune to life.
I really enjoyed the Big Band sections, Mr Whitson was very good at getting the audience involved’. The audience couldn’t help but whoop and cheer after their varied set-list which closed with Rock Around the Clock. Only a week after the Orchestral and Chamber Music Concert, this varied programme showed the talent of Lancing’s musicians and the diversity of opportunities that are available to our students!
Pupil, Fourth Form