Held on March 24, the event highlighted how students are nurtured from their first days in Year 7 to become confident, creative and accomplished performers.
The school’s dynamic Key Stage 3 curriculum has driven growing interest in GCSE music, with increasing numbers of students choosing to continue their studies.
Opportunities to perform in bands, vocal groups and solo settings help students build confidence, independence, and collaboration skills – qualities that resonate far beyond the classroom.
Fourteen acts from Years 10 to Sixth Form delivered a vibrant programme spanning pop, rock and soul, including music by Blondie, Radiohead, Stevie Wonder, Rihanna, Adele and Olivia Dean.
Students demonstrated remarkable professionalism, selecting repertoire, rehearsing independently and crafting performances that reflected their individual style and creativity.
Music teacher Livia Harris says the school has driven interest in GCSE Music (Image: LSU)
Parents and guests were treated to standout moments including a confident first solo performance of Stay and the energetic band Bus to Nowhere, which showcased multi-instrumental talent and teamwork.
The evening concluded with a powerful whole-ensemble performance of Cynthia Erivo’s Stand Up from the film Harriet, with rich vocal harmonies bringing the showcase to a moving close.
The inclusion of steel pan, alongside traditional band instruments, reflected the diverse musical influences that shape La Sainte Union’s curriculum and celebrate the school’s inclusive community.
A governor attending the event praised the impact of the school’s music offer, noting:
“Overall, it was a fantastic event that clearly reflects the creativity, talent, and hard work of both students and staff. It was wonderful to see pupils performing with such confidence and individuality, and balancing rehearsals alongside revision commitments is no small task.
“The quality of performances really demonstrated the strength of the school’s music provision.”
Music is central to the ethos of the school. As part of the Sacred Sciences Faculty, it recognises the spiritual and personal impact of musical expression.
The school’s Music Scholars programme further enhances provision by offering additional tuition to students demonstrating aptitude, ensuring talent is nurtured and opportunities remain accessible.
This year’s showcase captured the essence of La Sainte Union: a school where creativity is valued, individuality is celebrated, and students are empowered to grow in confidence while achieving academic success.
The performance was not only a celebration of musical excellence but a reflection of a community where young people thrive.
- Livia Harris is Music Subject Lead at La Sainte Union Catholic School, Highgate (lasainteunion.org.uk).
