Nexus Musicians “Let it Shine” on Singapore Botanic Gardens Stage

A highly anticipated follow-up to last year’s roaring success, we were thrilled to see over 200 of our school musicians return for this year’s Nexus at the Gardens. While last year saw us dodging thunder and rain, this year the weather was firmly on our side, and our Nexus learners shone as they performed an evening of incredible music.  

After a long day of rehearsals in the tropical heat, our learners took to the iconic Shaw Foundation Symphony Stage, delivering a spectacular performance to a crowd of over 1,200 people. Families from our school community and members of the wider Singapore public gathered with picnics to enjoy a diverse repertoire, from soulful Jazz/Pop and Guitar ensembles to soaring performances by our Primary, Secondary, and Chamber Choirs. From the first beat of the Drum Line who performed The Avengers Theme Tune to the last note of Take That’s “Shine”, it was clear that our learners’ hours of practice had paid off. 

The Nexus Community Comes Together

“For me, it was just amazing to see our Nexus community out in force,” shares Clare Lambert, Learning Area Leader for Secondary Music. “Many Nexus families brought friends from other schools, and we even had members of the general public stop and listen during the day’s soundcheck! There was a sea of Nexus picnic blankets!” Ms Lambert also emphasised how experiences like these are invaluable for our learners, adding that she hopes the event has “inspired many young children to start learning an instrument and join us on stage next year!”

For the performers themselves, this concert has become an annual highlight, a sentiment shared by everyone from our Year 3 Primary choir to our graduating Class of 2026.

The Heart of the Performance

While nerves and excitement ran high, the overriding sentiment was one of unity. “I love how this event brings the whole school together,” shared one Year 6 learner. “Seeing the massive audience singing along and enjoying themselves made me feel so happy!”

Even for our Year 13 learners, who are currently balancing busy revision schedules, the event was unmissable. “I really wanted to perform this year as it’s my final time with Nexus. It’s been a truly special way to say goodbye,” shared one of our graduating seniors.

Pride and Dedication

The commitment of our learners did not go unnoticed by the parents in the audience. One parent remarked, “We couldn’t believe that some of these performers are school-aged; the talent is incredible. Performing on such an iconic stage in Singapore, and to such a huge crowd is an amazing opportunity for them, and we’re very proud.”

The evening reached a powerful crescendo with the grand finale. All 200 performers returned to the stage for a rendition of the Take That classic, “Shine”—a moment that perfectly captured the spirit of collaboration and excellence we strive for at Nexus.

Principal Simon Mann noted that the event showcases “everything great about Nexus—fun, collaboration, and community. As always, it is centred around our fantastic learners showcasing their passions.”

Looking Ahead

At Nexus, we are proud to offer diverse performance opportunities throughout the year, both locally and internationally. From the Singapore Botanic Gardens to our own purpose-built auditorium, and from choral performances at CHIJMES to the FOBISIA Battle of the Bands, our learners are supported to become the best performers they can be—both on stage and in the classroom.

Interested in seeing our performers in action? Find out more about the Arts at Nexus or book a tour to visit our music facilities.