Esher Musicians Shine at Christmas Concert

The concert opened in style with the College’s nine-piece Jazz Band, conducted by Teacher of Music Paul Jenkins, setting the tone for a night that showcased an impressive range of genres. From opera and Chopin to death metal, the programme reflected both the breadth of the students’ talents and the vibrancy of the College’s music community.

Seasonal favourites were woven throughout the evening, including Feliz Navidad, Last Christmas by Wham!, and Happy Christmas Mr Lawrence by Ryuichi Sakamoto, performed as a piano solo. The audience also enjoyed Happy Xmas (War Is Over) by John Lennon, the soaring O Holy Night written by Placide Cappeau, and a rousing finale of Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree by Johnny Marks.

While many of the performers study Music A Level or take the College’s vocational Music Production course, the evening also featured students who pursue music through enrichment options. Behind the scenes, Music Production students provided technical support, ensuring a professional and seamless production.

Claire Whittaker, Head of Music at Esher College, praised the students’ commitment and creativity.

“As staff we are so privileged to work with such bright, talented and cheerful students who create, collaborate and rehearse their music so faithfully,” she said. “We have a fantastic time every day teaching music to our students and learning so much from them in return as they develop their skills, hone their incredible talents and find their way on their individual musical journeys. There really is no better place to work. I am truly blessed to work with such a superb cast of brilliant teachers too, and we are looking forward to another term ahead of exhilarating music making.”

Merry Christmas everyone!