
English master Mr Tim Derricourt shares his impressions of some dazzling, high-energy musical performances, showcasing the versatility and virtuosity of Grammar musicians and leaving the enthusiastic audience wanting more.

There is something dangerous about a rock concert, something unpredictable. Perhaps it is because rock, at heart, is rebellion. We donât expect perfection; we want surprise, the sense that the band, singer or instrumentalist has stepped beyond the safety of the score to create something improvised, real and entirely of the moment.
Grammarpalooza 2026 might not have been dangerous, but it was undoubtedly a night of pure joy and spirit, as immensely talented young performers captivated the crowd with just enough wild rockânâroll abandon.

Compèred with wit and energy by Benjamin Lim and Joel Chew (both VI), the evening opened with Medium Rock, newly graduated from Junior Rock, tearing through Foo Fightersâ âThe Pretenderâ and The Strokesâ âReptiliaâ. The Snorkelers, suitably attired, followed with an aquatic âThe Final Countdownâ, before Imbeciles unleashed âSmells Like Teen Spiritâ. Sixth Formers Garage Band brought mellowness and maturity with Wave to Earthâs âSeasonsâ, while the Electric Guitar Ensemble settled the crowd with their steady groove. Spilt Milk kept things moving with a slick medley of Goo Goo Dolls, Radiohead, Panic! At The Disco and Walk the Moon. First-timers Fortunate Sons (fan club in tow) tackled classic rock, while Crosshairs showcased their award-winning original. Bedtime by 9 impressed with terrific harmonies and Djoâs laidback groove, before SPF50+ had the audience âDancing in the Moonlightâ. Mayo Tori continued the medley tradition with upbeat jams from the last thirty years, while The Undertones delivered the huge rock sound of Royal Blood. The Music Committee offered another cleverly constructed medley, with surprise appearances from Ms Lizzio, Mr Gill and Ms Rutter, before Off-Report embraced the chaos of Van Halen.

Particular farewells go to WD40, Grammarpalooza originals who have performed in almost every event since Form I, and Senior Rock, making their final appearance in their current iteration, having also played together since Form I. My thanks especially to the virtuosic Max Salmon (VI) and ever-laid-back Joe Hayes (VI) for their years of commitment, musicianship and greatly-appreciated service to rock at Grammar.
