News & Headteacher Blogs

The Downs School Summer Concert – 6 May 2026

We ended a vibrant year of music concerts with our annual Summer Concert, an evening celebrating the incredible talent and dedication of our students. The programme featured soloists, duets, small ensembles, and a brilliant performance by the Playday Orchestra. Thank you to every student that took part!

1. Playday – Sweet Talking Woman
2. Y13 Band – Kathleen
3. Gaby Da & Bethany – Something
4. Cillian – You’re Beautiful
5. Eggs Benedict – Sir Duke
6. Wind Band – Rockin’ Rhythm
7. Imogen & Aiden – You & Me But Mostly Me
8. Toby – Meditation
9. Beren & Evie – I’m Gonna’ Love You
10. Vocal Group – Dance the Night
11. Orchestra – Toreador’s Song
12. Arina – Home Town Glory
13. Jazz Band feat. Miriam – Isn’t She Lovely
14. Stanley – Oscar Winning Tears
15. Y10 Gabi D Band – She Moves in Her Own Way
16. Tom S – Toothless Found
17. Y11 Girls – Ain’t It Fun
18. Jazz Band – St Thomas
19. Erin & Ava – You Love Who You Love
20. Rosie – Girl on Fire
21. Playday – Pink Pony Club

For some students, this was their first-ever Summer Concert, for others, it marked a farewell to their time at School. Several Year 13 students, including Joe H, have participated in every Summer Concert since Year 7. It has been a true privilege to watch Joe develop into a confident, consummate performer. For his final appearance, Joe’s Year 13 band delivered an energetic performance of ‘Kathleen’ by Catfish and the Bottlemen.

We also said a fond goodbye to Year 13 musicians Arina and Aiden. Both have been dedicated contributors to our musical community, delivering professional and polished performances at every event.
The evening also spotlighted the emergence of a Year 7 rising star. Rosie performed ‘Girl on Fire’ and absolutely brought the house down!

Finally, we bid a sad farewell to our drumming maestro, Jude, who is leaving us to take up a well-deserved music scholarship. In his short time at School, Jude has become an indispensable part of practically every musical event through his sheer talent and positive attitude. We wish him the absolute best for the future; he will be sorely missed.

Thank you to everyone who came to celebrate our talented students and give them the applause they deserved.

Our special Thanks
• The Music Team for helping to arrange the ensembles
• Hayden, Mr Hoyle and The Sound & Lighting Crew for tech support
• Tracy S & Becs B for their help with refreshments
• Finance & Front of House
• Berkshire Music Trust and Good Vibes Music Academy for instrumental lessons in school

Future Dates to note!
• Wednesday 24 June – Piano Recital
• Wednesday 15 July – House Performing Arts

Miss Brennecke