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40 Years of Live Aid

Guitarist performing on stage with a band.

The event that made history – Live Aid. A legendary lineup performed to a combined live audience of around 161,500 at Wembley Stadium and Philadelphia’s John F. Kennedy Stadium, with an estimated 1.9 billion viewers tuning in across 150 countries.

To mark the 40th anniversary of this iconic moment, we partnered with the British Music Experience at Liverpool’s historic Cunard Building. A talented group of our students from both first and second year, paid tribute to artists such as Elton John, Sade, Queen, and more in a moving performance.

Two sound technicians working at the back of the performance. Three singers stand together as the central singer sings a solo.

Photography: Brian Roberts Images 

Set in the heart of the museum, surrounded by iconic costumes, instruments, and memorabilia from British music legends like Oasis, the Stone Roses, and the Spice Girls it truly was a well thought-out and immersive experience.

Solo singer performs with her eyes closed and palms raised to the ceiling. Audience in the Cunard building watching the Live Aid tribute with a British Music Experience sign at the back. Some audience members have their hands right up in the air.

It was apparent just how much effort had gone into preparing for the night. The professionalism shown by our students was evident throughout, creating a powerful and moving tribute.

Three singers stand around a mic as they support the band. Sound technician stands with a tablet, monitoring the performance.

Between the exceptional performances, original images from Live Aid were shown on screens to transport the audience back to 1985. Students also provided introductions and context for each song, enhancing the emotional and historical weight of the evening.

Singer dances on stand with a mic in his hand.; Gruitarist looks straight at the camera pulling a funny face with a guitar pick in their mouth.

The show was led by an 8-piece student band, accompanied by several guest vocalists, tech crew and choir. Vocal arrangements were overseen by vocalist, Leah Lawley, while Lucy Hall, also a vocalist, took the lead on band lead. Their teamwork and leadership were instrumental in delivering a memorable and impactful show. The production was also carefully managed by our amazing tech students who provided all sound equipment for the show, and made sure that everything was put in place within a slim timeframe between the museum closing for the day and the start of the gig.

Guitarist performs on stage, looking down at his guitar. Guitarist stands at the back of the stage as part of the 8-piece band.

“What an experience! Session Band taught us all how to work together professionally. We had some difficult times but overall, we worked together and built amazing chemistry as a band. Individually, I became a leader and learned the right ways to communicate within the band. We had an amazing vocal leader that helped us feel prepared during every rehearsal. We are all so grateful for Session Band 2025 and the friendships we have made because of it!” Lucy Hall, Year 2 Music Production and Performance Student, Vocalist and Band Leader

Drummer plays as part of the 8-piece band. 4 vocalists stand together on stage while one sings, surrounded by Live Aid imagery on the screens.

For everyone involved – performers, audience, and the team at LIPA Sixth Form College, it was an unforgettable celebration of music and ultimately a night to remember.