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Ed Sheeran makes surprise appearance at Ipswich school event

Global superstar Ed Sheeran surprised more than 200 Ipswich students with an impromptu performance at The Baths on Tuesday, joining local artists at a music industry careers showcase.

Why it matters: The event exposed young people to the diverse range of career opportunities in the live music industry, from sound engineering to stage management.

The big picture: The showcase, organised by Brighten The Corners in collaboration with Norfolk and Suffolk Music Hub and Wolsey 550, brought together students from five local schools.

Ed Sheeran surprised more than 200 Ipswich students with an impromptu performance at The Baths
Ella CalverBrighten the Corners
Global superstar Ed Sheeran surprised more than 200 Ipswich students with an impromptu performance at The Baths

Key details:

  • Three emerging Suffolk acts performed: rapper Ryski, indie rock band AfterDrive, and pop duo Esme Emerson.

  • Students participated in artist Q&As before watching 15-minute performances.

  • The event focused on behind-the-scenes roles that support live music events.

Pop duo Esme Emerson performed at The Baths in Ipswich
Ella Calver
Pop duo Esme Emerson performed at the event

What they're saying: "We work within one of the most creative and dynamic industries in the UK and hope this event will be the catalyst for future careers whether on or behind the stage," said Joe Bailey, CEO of Brighten The Corners.

Go deeper: Brighten The Corners runs education programmes across three Ipswich venues, offering training and volunteering opportunities to young people aged 16 and above. You can find out more about them here.

Ed answered questions from students before his impromptu performance
Ella Calver
Ed answered questions from students before his impromptu performance

The bottom line: The surprise appearance by Ed Sheeran capped off an afternoon designed to inspire the next generation of music industry professionals in Suffolk.

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Ellisons Solicitors, Kingsfleet and Attwells Solicitors

Ellisons' new premises at Connexions on Princes Street, Ipswich

Ellisons Solicitors

Established for 260 years, Ellisons is a top 200 UK law firm and one of the region’s oldest, most established and fastest growing firms.
The Kingsfleet team outside their offices in Claydon, near Ipswich

Spend your time and money as you wish

Award winning, independent financial planners helping the people of Suffolk reach their financial objectives.
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  • Lee Walker
  • Joe Bailey of Brighten the Corners
  • Mark Hubert
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