Highlight of the week

News

Musical Excellence

01 May 2026

Yesterday’s Lunchtime Recital in Llandaff Cathedral was a most enjoyable celebration of the musical talent and dedication of our Senior pupils, offering a varied and engaging programme for all who attended.

The recital opened with a lively ensemble performance of Weekend in England (Randy Edelman, arr. C. Vale) and Can-Can (Offenbach, arr. Vale), performed by our Double Reeds Ensemble. Featuring oboists, Anshul S and Phoebe B, and bassoonists, Elaine L, Katy M-H and Huw P, the group set a confident and spirited tone for the afternoon, showcasing both precision and a strong sense of musical connection.

The programme continued with a series of accomplished solo performances. An expressive rendition of Cimarosa’s Oboe Concerto (Introduction and Allegro) by Anshul S highlighted both technical dexterity and musical sensitivity, while a moving performance of Agnus Dei from Mozart’s Coronation Mass from Boy Chorister, Matthew W demonstrated the purity and expressive control of his treble voice.

Instrumental highlights included a confident and energetic performance of the first movement of Kuhlau’s Sonatina in A on piano from Inessa R, alongside a graceful interpretation from Carys S of Godard’s Allegretto from Trois Morceaux on flute. The audience also enjoyed Evie A’s characterful and rhythmic performance of Joplin’s Maple Leaf Rag on piano.

Vocal performances continued to impress, with expressive interpretations of Quilter’s Love’s Philosophy by Gwenan H and Owen H’s performance of his own A-Level composition, She Walks in Beauty, each delivered with clarity, technical assurance and considerable emotional engagement. The concert also featured Sasha R’s beautifully controlled and lyrical performance of Saint-Saëns’ The Swan on cello, providing a fitting and reflective close to the programme.

Many congratulations to all our pupil musicians, and particular thanks to our Year 13s, as they approach exam leave - we acknowledge the considerable musical contribution and impact they have made during their time at CSL.

Click on the image below for more photos from the Recital