Last week, the much-anticipated annual Bedfordshire Festival of Music, Speech and Drama took place, running from Saturday 7th to Saturday 14th March 2026.
BGS was well-represented, with a host of students participating in a wide array of categories. From full choirs and orchestras to solo performances and instrumental ensembles, our students demonstrated their versatility and dedication. The festival also featured a range of speech and drama performances, including verse-speaking, mime, acting and group work pieces, highlighting the depth of talent within our school.
The Speech and Drama entries were particularly impressive, with a strong showing from students across all year groups. Their hard work was rewarded with an outstanding total of 13 1sts, 12 2nds and 25 3rds. To see the full breakdown of BGS Speech and Drama results, click here.
Ms Smith (Speech and Drama Teacher) said: “Congratulations to all our talented Speech and Drama students who performed. We were thrilled to witness the students’ dedication, hard work, and passion for their craft shine through in every performance. Each student brought something unique to their chosen text, demonstrating individuality, creativity, and an impressive ability to captivate the adjudicators.
“A special mention goes to those who competed in their first festival, who embraced what can be an exciting yet daunting experience. Their courage and commitment were truly commendable. The achievements stand as a testament to the students’ perseverance, imagination and genuine love of literature.”
Our Music participants delivered excellent performances, competing in various classes with ensembles and solo acts. Results were highly commendable, with 22 first places (including 3 Exceptional and 2 Outstanding), 23 second places (including 5 Outstanding), and 16 third places. Additionally, 12 performances earned Outstanding, 52 received Honours, 86 were Commended and 5 earned Merits. Click here.
Mr Page (Director of Music) said: “It was wonderful to hear of so many students excelling in solo classes and equally thrilling to see our choirs and ensembles performing so successfully.
“Our two Senior Choirs, Genesis and Bel Canto, began the week with an exciting head-to-head. Both were judged Outstanding, with Bel Canto taking the coveted first place. Their success continued throughout the week, as they went on to win the highly prized Harding Cup and the Bedford Choral Society Cup, as well as earning a place in the prestigious Gala Concert.
“Junior Choir and Baby Bels also performed superbly, both receiving Honours and placing second and third in their respective classes. Meanwhile, our Junior Orchestra and Senior Orchestra impressed in their categories, receiving high praise from the adjudicator, with the Senior Orchestra securing first prize for their electrifying performance.
View a gallery of photos from the competition here.
