Confidence, quality and a brilliant sense of camaraderie were on full display at this year’s House Music competition, a showcase of the College’s extraordinary musical talent.

The day began with a series of lively heats, expertly adjudicated by Alan McGuinness, featuring performances across a variety of instruments and voices. Pupils demonstrated their skills on piano, violin, clarinet, saxophone and drums, as well as in solo and ensemble singing. This year, the Junior School added an extra sparkle to the final, having qualified last week at the Junior Festival, and their energy and enthusiasm perfectly complemented the Senior performances.

The overall winner was Year 13 pupil Thomas E, whose accomplished and engaging rendition of Being Alive from the musical Company captured both technical precision and emotional depth. It was a highlight in a day filled with remarkable performances, each one earning its place in the final.

House points remained closely contested throughout, with Ripley claiming victory by the narrowest of margins – just eight points. Our adjudicator praised not only the standard of performance but also the spirit in which the competition was enjoyed, with pupils supporting one another with genuine warmth, while the audience remained attentive and appreciative from first note to final flourish.

The 2026 House Music competition was a vivid celebration of creativity, house pride and sheer musical enjoyment – a day that will be remembered for its talent, spirit and harmony.