Day 4: Courage, Character, and Artistic Growth | Oswestry Youth Music Festival 2026

As we move past the midway point of the festival, the venues across Oswestry are alive with the sound of music and the spirit of ambition. Today was a marathon of performances for Ellesmere, and while the results are wonderful, the true story of the day was the courage and character shown by every single one of our pupils.

Whether they were seasoned performers or making their debut, our pupils stepped well out of their comfort zones today. To every student who got up, played their part, and contributed to the team effort: you have made the teaching team incredibly proud. 

 

A Masterclass in Vocal Versatility

Our senior singers embraced everything from Opera to Indie-Rock with incredible vigour:

Contemporary & Pop: Kiri was awarded Joint 1st for a powerful performance of Radiohead’s Creep. We also saw fantastic performances from Tanny, Tilly, Angus, Holly, and Ava.

The Classical Stage: Mini took 3rd with a sensitive rendition of Schubert’s Du Bist die Ruh in the Test Piece class. Ellie secured 1st Place in the Classical & Vocal class with a stunning performance of Maconchy’s Ophelia’s Song.

Musical Theatre & Opera: A huge congratulations to Ellie for winning the Weston Pools Trophy (1st Place). In the Opera class, it was an Ellesmere clean sweep with Lidia (1st), Ellie (2nd), and Mini (3rd), alongside excellent sets from Isobel and Angus.

Gilbert & Sullivan: Louisa took 2nd Place.

Evening Duets: Tabby and Tilly brought the house down with their version of First Aid Kit’s Emmylou, placing 3rd.

 

🎷 Strings, Woodwind & The Power of Rock

The instrumentalists were equally busy, showing immense technical growth and focus:

Woodwind: Tabby won the Olympic Trophy (1st Place) for a sensitive and intelligent interpretation of Massenet’s Meditation.

Strings: Jack and Florence were Joint 3rd in the 15 & Under class, both receiving commendation for their technique and musicality.

Rock Bands: Four of our school bands took to the stage in a series of high-energy classes. A special shout-out to Karina, Zac, Florence, and Eddie, who took 2nd Place in a very competitive 15 & Under category!

✨ The Spirit of Competition

This festival is about more than just trophies; it is about finding your voice and supporting your peers. The "Ellesmere Team" atmosphere was palpable today, and that collective passion is what truly defines us.

As we head into the final days, we keep that momentum going. Good luck to everyone performing tomorrow!