On Wednesday 2 July 2025, we welcomed over 65 OKS and parents to the King's Week Gala Symphony Concert and drinks reception.

Our guests were specially invited in recognition of their invaluable support as volunteers - including OKS magazine contributors, networking panellists, committee members, ambassadors, and those who generously gave their time to rehearse and perform with the School chorus earlier this year. 

"We are delighted to have your company for one of the most special evenings of the annual King’s calendar. The Gala Concert is always incredibly special, capping an incredible King’s Week. This year the quality has been as high as the temperatures, though I am glad to see the latter returning to cooler and more comfortable levels.

Everyone here has helped King’s in some way this year – through volunteering, advising, mentoring, encouraging, editing, singing, or simply showing up when we needed you. That support means a great deal to us, and we are glad to share this special evening with you by way of thank you."

- Jude Lowson, Head 

The evening began with a drinks reception in the picturesque Lattergate Garden, warmly hosted by the Head, Jude Lowson. Following a brief speech, in which Jude shared School updates and expressed heartfelt thanks to our supporters, guests moved to the Shirley Hall for the much-anticipated concert.

The concert opened with MacCunn’s Land of the Mountain and the Flood Overture, followed by the chance to hear some of this year’s talented leavers perform Bruch’s Kol Nidrei for ‘cello, and movements from Larsson’s Horn Concertino and Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto.

The second half of the concert showcased the wonderful Symphony Orchestra in a complete performance of Tchaikovsky’s 5th Symphony, a most fitting way to bring King’s Week to an end.

We extend our deepest thanks to all of our volunteers and supporters. We hope you enjoyed this special evening.

A recording of the Gala Symphony Concert is available to watch here or below.

If you'd like to find out more about getting involved as a volunteer with the OKS, King's Association, or Development Office, please contact the Development Team: community@kings-school.co.uk