Ed Sheeran surprises music students with an impromptu concert

British music superstar Ed Sheeran surprised a group of music students with an impromptu performance at college.

The four-time Grammy winner appeared at Sheffield College as 19-year-old student Lol Bailey performed Sheeran’s number one song Shape Of You in a workshop held in the college’s drama and music theatre.

Sheeran took to the stage to perform a rendition of the song as well as Castle On The Hill, both from his 2017 album Divide, before playing acoustic guitar as the students rapped into the microphone.

The 33-year-old music star was seen laughing as a student rapped: “I came to the studio, it’s a new day, Ed Sheehan is here, my legs are shaking.”

Sheeran also answered the young students’ questions about the industry and listened to their future career ambitions.

Angela Foulkes, Chief Executive and Principal of Sheffield College, said it was “fantastic” to welcome Sheeran to the institution.

“It’s not every day that a global singer drops by to share his talent, knowledge and expertise with students to help them move forward in their careers,” she said.

While Matthew Henley, curriculum manager for music at the college, said it was an “inspirational experience” that students will “never forget”.

The surprise appearance was organized by the Sheffield Music Hub team at Sheffield City Council.

Ian Naylor, Head of Music Education at Sheffield City Council, said: “Sheffield has a rich musical heritage and is committed to developing homegrown talent and seeing our creative industries thrive.

“It was a pleasure to host Ed today and see firsthand his commitment to using his global platform to advocate for the importance of music education.”

Earlier, Sheeran visited the city’s Red Tape studios and spoke to young musicians completing the Tracks course, about making their own music, run by Sheffield Music School.