A Night to Remember: RGS Takes Centre Stage

IT WAS WITH GREAT HONOR ON WEDNESDAY 19TH MARCH 2025 THAT WE OFFICIALLY LAUNCHED OUR MUSICAL 500TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS WITH THE SPECTACULAR RGS 500 CHOIR & ORCHESTRA CONCERT AT THE GLASSHOUSE, INTERNATIONAL CENTRE FOR MUSIC. 

It was a night that will be remembered for years to come - a moment of unity, pride, and extraordinary musical talent that brought together students, staff, alumni, and special guests to mark this historic milestone.

His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Tyne & Wear, Ms Lucy Winskell OBE, opened the concert with a powerful reflection on RGS’s rich legacy and enduring commitment to education and the arts.  “For five centuries, RGS has stood as a pillar of education, inspiring young minds and shaping future leaders,” she remarked. “What better way to launch these celebrations than through music - a universal language that unites us all.”

The concert was a dazzling showcase of the depth and breadth of musical excellence across our school community. From the youngest voices in the Junior School Choir’s stirring rendition of Swing Low to the majestic harmonies of the Senior Choir’s Tudor-inspired set, the evening beautifully reflected both our history and our future.

The newly commissioned RGS 500 Fanfare, composed by senior student Alissa L (Year 12), provided a rousing introduction to the evening. Reflecting on the experience, she said: “It’s been an amazing opportunity to compose for such a prestigious occasion.”

Fellow musician Will added: “This was the biggest and most packed venue I’ve ever performed in - it was both humbling and exhilarating.”

A particular highlight was the massed performance of Gloria which was followed by the school song  Triumphans, conducted with boundless energy and passion by our incredible Director of Music Mr Neil Smith, and his team of dedicated music staff including Mrs Clappison, Ms Bolt and Ms Fisher. As one audience member, an Old Novocastrian, observed: “It was moving to see the school achieve something so ambitious with such spirit, enthusiasm, and fun.”

The atmosphere in the auditorium was electric, and as the final notes rang out there was a palpable sense of pride and achievement shared by performers and audience alike.

In a fitting finale, each member of the audience waved a flag in time with the newly recommissioned version of Triumphans, creating a breathtakingly emotional moment reminiscent of ‘The Last Night of the Proms’. The sight of the entire Glasshouse auditorium united in song and celebration was a powerful and unforgettable conclusion to the evening.

RGS Headmaster Mr Geoffrey Stanford reflected on the significance of the event, stating: “Tonight has been a true testament to the strength of our community and the legacy of this remarkable school. The performances have been outstanding, and I am incredibly proud of our students and staff for creating such a memorable occasion.”

RGS Junior School Headteacher Mr James Miller added: "To see students from the Junior School through to our Senior ensembles, alongside our alumni and supporters, come together in such a powerful and uplifting performance has been truly inspiring. Music has always been at the heart of RGS, and tonight’s concert was a perfect reminder of its ability to unite and inspire us all."

As the audience departed, many shared their excitement for the year ahead, which will see a series of special events marking this historic quincentenary. One thing was certain - the RGS 500 Choir & Orchestra Concert was not only a fitting tribute to our past but a resounding declaration of our bright future.

Here’s to the next 500 years of RGS! Click Here to view our concert photo gallery.