Alderley Edge Music Festival 2026
Mr Jonathan Dickson – Director of Performances
Ms Laurie Ashworth and Ms Rachel Gilmore – Peripatetic Music Teachers
St Bede’s pupils have always been willing to showcase their talents outside school, and the week of the 20th April saw many of our pupils perform at the annual Alderley Edge Festival, in Classical, Musical Theatre and Popular vocal classes.
Participating prep pupils included Lilly-May, Alana, Kadima, Ona and Sylvie, and flying the flag for the College were Mia S, Annie W, Noelle L, Ayla V, Rosie T, Evelyn M, Enya M, Amanee B, Tami S, Ruby S and Inaaya Y.
There was huge success, with many 2nd and 3rd places being awarded. Annie W secured first place in both the Year 7 Musical Theatre Class and the Year 7 Classical Class, demonstrating her versatility and strong performance skills across genres. She also partnered with Noelle L to win the Year 7 Duet Class, highlighting the pair’s excellent collaboration and musicality.
In addition to these achievements, Annie was awarded second place in the highly competitive Young Singer of the Year category (Years 7–9), marking her as one of the top young vocalists at the festival.
Both Annie and Noelle were invited to perform in the final showcase concert, an event featuring the very best performers from across all classes.
St Bede’s had a strong presence throughout the festival, with many students participating across a wide range of classes. This level of involvement and success reflects the strength of the school’s music department and the valuable contribution of its visiting peripatetic teachers.