Musical Excellence: Dulwich Pudong Winter Concerts
On Friday 5 December, the annual Dulwich College Shanghai Pudong Winter Concerts filled the Jaguar Shanghai Symphony Hall with bright music and touching voices. Over several hours, more than 400 students, staff and parents performed a specially arranged seasonal programme, creating a warm and festive evening for families and guests.
The evening opened with a Chamber Concert featuring smaller ensembles and groups, including the first ever public performance by our newly formed Percussion Ensemble and a beautiful performance from the student-led Singchronised a cappella group. Next, the voices of our DUCKS Mulan and Mushu Choirs sang seasonal pieces including Tell Me a Story Shining Star, a piece that set a calm and heartfelt mood. The Chamber Brass ensemble followed with Christmas Suite, adding lively rhythms and bright tones that lifted the atmosphere.
The Junior School and Senior School Chamber Strings ensembles performed familiar classical pieces such as the Blue Danube Waltz and Fuga y Misterio, showing the students' technical confidence in performing classical works.
At the Gala Concert in the main Concert Hall, the Years 3–4 and 5–6 Choirs added their own character with simple, energetic singing, our auditioned choirs, Bel Canto and Chamber Choir, sang in beautiful harmonies, and the Senior Choir presented a new version of the familiar song Snail, which many Jay Chou fans in the hall immediately recognised.
As the concert moved forward, each group added a different winter feeling. The Adagio, Andante and Allegro Strings ensembles shared pieces including Edelweiss (from The Sound of Music), themes from Tchaikovsky's The Nutcracker and the 'Winter', Movement 1 from Vivaldi's Four Seasons, while our brass, wind and percussion students shone as part of the Big Band, Brass Band, Wind Band and Concert Band, each offering its own unique energy and character, giving the audience many moments to enjoy.
One of the most touching parts of the evening came at its finale. The Concert Orchestra and Combined Choir performed Christmastime together, filling the hall with a warm sense of hope.
What a spectacular finale to the term! We are so proud of all our amazing music students. Seeing them perform with such passion and skill in our beautiful venue was a real joy. The dedication shown by every musician, from DUCKS to Year 13, was truly inspiring and the event is a perfect reflection of the strength of our music programme here at Dulwich Pudong.
Music as a Language
Our Commitment to Arts Education
This year's Winter Concerts brought together many groups: choirs, string players, wind and brass ensembles, a cappella singers and percussionists. Their performances highlighted the depth and systematic approach to music education that shapes the range of musical opportunities available at our school.
At Dulwich Pudong, music is an important part of every stage of learning. From musical awareness in early years, to primary instrumental learning, to secondary composition training and ensemble participation, music accompanies students throughout their entire learning journey. Whether they are young beginners or experienced senior musicians, there is a pathway that suits them and a place where they can perform and grow.
For us, music is more than a subject—it is a way to express emotion, build connections and broaden perspectives. This year's Winter Concerts not only highlighted our students' artistic achievements but also reaffirmed our school's dedication and passion for music education. By giving students a space to share their progress, we hope they enjoy the experience of performing together for many years to come.
