Sedbergh School Delivers an Unforgettable Concert at The Bridgewater Hall
Sedbergh School marked a significant milestone in its 500-year history with a spectacular concert at The Bridgewater Hall to launch its Quintenary year. Bringing together over 200 performers and an audience of 1,500, the event was a celebration of the school’s rich musical heritage and tight-knit community. Opened in 1996 by HM Queen Elizabeth II, The Bridgewater Hall, one of the UK’s premier concert venues, provided the perfect setting for this landmark occasion.
An Evening to Remember The concert opened with a rousing performance of Handel’s Zadok the Priest, setting the tone for an evening filled with emotion, talent, and celebration. The programme showcased a diverse repertoire, featuring Sedbergh’s current pupils, staff, and Old Sedberghians (OS) who have pursued distinguished musical careers.
Among the notable soloists was Tristram Cooke, a respected counter-tenor and member of the Westminster Abbey Choir, and Joseph DeGroote, a recent Sedbergh leaver now studying at the Juilliard School of Music. Their performances of Baroque masterpieces by Bach and Handel captivated the audience. Later, James McLeod delivered a virtuosic euphonium solo, echoing his success as a BBC Brass Young Musician of the Year finalist 15 years ago.
Adding to the event’s uniqueness, a specially formed brass band, led by OS and current Sedbergh staff member Mr. Iwan Lewis, delivered a powerful set. Comprising past members of the highly regarded CCF Brass Band, the group performed with remarkable precision, having rehearsed together for the first time just hours before the concert. Their final piece featured a stunning collaboration with Sedbergh’s talented bagpipers, under the guidance of instructor Mr. Bryan Robinson.
A Tribute to Community and Creativity The concert also paid tribute to Sedbergh’s own musical talent with two compositions by Director of Creative Arts & Head of Choral Music, Mr. John Seymour. His moving setting of Psalm 121 was performed in memory of the late Mr. Kyle Joyeau, a much-loved Chemistry teacher and Powell House tutor. The premiere of Jubilate brought moments of exuberance and reflection, highlighting Mr. Seymour’s compositional brilliance.
The second half of the concert opened with a powerful rendition of Parry’s I Was Glad, filling the hall with an extraordinary depth of sound. A full symphony orchestra of over 90 musicians then took the stage for two of Elgar’s Pomp and Circumstance marches, thrilling the audience with their energy and precision. The enthusiastic crowd joined in for Land of Hope and Glory, creating an electric atmosphere.
One of the evening’s most special moments was the mass congregational singing, a long-standing Sedbergh tradition. Four beloved hymns, arranged by Mr. Allinson, Mr. Noke, Mr. Seymour, and Mr. Norman, were performed with full audience participation, culminating in a powerful, heartfelt display of collective spirit.
A Night to Treasure The concert concluded with Jerusalem—despite an amusing false start—as well as two cherished Sedbergh School songs, The Long Run and Winder. As the final notes rang through the hall, the atmosphere was charged with emotion and gratitude.
“The buzz around the hall after the concert was unlike anything we have ever experienced at a Sedbergh event,” said Mr Allinson. “This evening was a testament to the strength and spirit of the Sedbergh community, and we are immensely grateful to have shared this unforgettable experience together.”
Our 500th anniversary celebrations will conclude with our annual Christmas Carol Service which will be held this year at York Minster on 8th December, bringing our year of commemoration to a fitting close. But before then, we eagerly look forward to our May Gala Weekend, a spectacular event filled with celebration, community, and unforgettable moments – view the programme and book.