St John’s Smith Square Concert

Returning to the exquisite St. John’s Smith Square after six years was an absolute joy on Friday. The Wellington College Symphony Orchestra, accompanied by Camerata, Schola Cantorum, and Big Band, delivered a captivating performance at the sold-out venue, showcasing a diverse repertoire and paying a heartfelt tribute to our capital.

Britten’s Ceremony of Carols was performed in its entirety by the sopranos and altos of Schola Cantorum, a new ensemble for the College’s more experienced singers. Accompanied brilliantly by Jenny B, and with solos from Flo H, Carmela D, Catrina SS, Bella C, and Helen C, they captured the contrast of ethereal beauty and angular dynamism in a sequence of twelve movements unified by Gregorian-inspired chant. A hugely successful first performance for this ensemble, who will appear again at St. John’s College, Cambridge, later in the term. – Jack Thompson, Head of Chapel Music

The Wellington College Big Band performed a showcase concert that highlighted our soloists, swinging rhythm section, and fantastic horns. The band opened with an energetic take on the classic ‘Foggy Day in London Town,’ sung with brilliant energy and skill by the talented Sophie S. The band then showcased its horn section with a complex and nuanced tune, ‘I’ll Take Les,’ demonstrating the dynamic and tight playing of the horn section. We finished with Tara R bringing the house down with an outstanding performance of Benny Goodman’s ‘Sing Sing Sing.’ – Jonathan Heeley, Head Of Brass

A special thanks to the wonderful audience for joining us and to St John’s Smith Square for graciously hosting us once again. We eagerly anticipate our return!

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