The 2025 SACS Showcase themed this year as 'generations' lived up to its name—and then some—featuring a remarkable gathering of Old Andreans whose musical talents and deep ties to our School were on full display. 

 We had performers spanning more than six decades of SACS history, as well as heartfelt tributes and special reunions. This year's concert was a true celebration of the generations of musicians shaped by their time at SACS. 

The Community Choir was reintroduced specially for our 140th anniversary and was brimming with Old Andreans and Hessians, with voices from the Class of 1961 right through to 2024. The ensemble of 120 singers, conducted by Richard Hansen (OA2003), captured the spirit of connection that continues to define performing arts at SACS. They were joined by a band of recent graduates and Hessians, including Brendan Bennett (OA2024), Jayden Beckett (OA2023), Alec Campbell (OA2024), and Penelope Campbell (Hessian), adding vibrant energy to the performance. The Seargent Pepper jackets were a hit too and a nice tribute to former Head of Music, Ralph Wilcock. 

A standout moment came with the revival of Haydn's Cello Concerto in C, complete with period costume—a nod to the original performance a decade ago. It was a joy to welcome back Amelia Rutherford (OA2002), Manasseh Oshiro (OA2011), Noah Oshiro (OA2018), and James Yoo (OA2006) who all played in the original performance in 2013. The concerto was conducted by Yoshi Oshiro (OA2013). In a particularly touching gesture, James Yoo flew in from overseas especially for the occasion.

It was great to have him back and enjoy his onstage cello dual with Noah Oshiro. It was also a memorable experience for the student cellists, who were given this remarkable opportunity to perform alongside the masters of the instrument. 

As always, the Cathedral Choir featured familiar Old Andrean faces, including Richard Anderson (OA1989) and David Kearns (OA1987), whose continued involvement is a testament to the enduring musical legacy of the school. 

The massed performance of Sing! A Song for St Andrew's—affectionately known as Yabun by many—brought more than 500 voices from together, which was especially nostalgic. Of course, it was also brilliant to see Kate Robertson (OA2002) on the podium conducting the Junior School choir. 

Several of the evening's performances were dedicated to the memory of the late Chris Belshaw OAM, Head of Music from 1999 to 2013, and we were honoured to have Alina Belshaw (OA2001) in the audience. Mrs Belshaw's influence continues to echo through the voices and instruments of the students and alumni she inspired. It was a truly special night, with Old Andreans not only filling the stage but also the audience—reminding us all of the lifelong bond shared through music and the SACS community.