Spectacular Performances at the Annual Arete Music Competition

The Annual Arête Music Competition returned for its third year at the start of the Summer Term, bringing together students from across all five Arête schools — Blenheim High School, Gordon’s School, Robert May’s School, Woking High School, and Alderwood School. The highly anticipated event showcased the exceptional musical talents of students from all year groups, celebrating creativity, discipline, and passion across the partnership.

Competitors took part in six diverse categories: Vocal, Brass, Percussion, Woodwind, Strings/Guitar, and Piano. Each category highlighted a unique facet of musical skill, from the power and expression of the human voice to the delicate artistry of piano and string instruments, the bold tones of brass, the rhythmic precision of percussion, and the melodic agility of woodwind performances.

Special guest adjudicator, esteemed Ben Costello, praised the students not only for their technical skill but also for their stage presence and interpretation of the pieces. The level of talent displayed was exceptional, with many performances earning highly positive responses from both the audience and Music staff across the Arête schools.

The event was also attended by the Deputy Mayor of Woking, Councillor Rob Leach, who commended the schools for their collaboration in organising the competition and for encouraging young people to engage with the Arts.

Mr Peckham, Head of Music at Robert May’s School, said:“It was a privilege last night to witness the musical talents of the pupils selected from the combined schools of the Arête Partnership in the annual Arête Music Competition. From the outset and throughout each instrumental category, the audience and adjudicator were treated to an evening of excellence and musical expression that was a tribute to the dedication of all performers. As the adjudicator, Mr Ben Costello, mentioned, repertoire was selected in such a way as to fully challenge and connect with the audience and deliver thrilling performances of style, beauty and admirable dexterity. Thank you to performers, Music Staff and all those involved in creating such an exceptional evening.”

Students from across the Arête schools achieved success across multiple categories. Notably, Sahana Kumar won the Piano category and Gianna Ng was awarded first place for Cello in the Strings category. The overall winner of the competition was Collette White from Robert May’s School, whose marimba performance in the Percussion category was particularly impressive.

The competition not only celebrated individual achievement but also reinforced the strong collaborative relationship between the Arête schools, supporting students’ cultural development alongside their academic studies.