Extracurricular Music

There are ensembles for children of all abilities - orchestras, choirs, bands, chamber groups...

Orchestra

Choir

Senior Singers

The Junior Choir is a non-auditioned choir for years 4 and 5.  The Choir sings in the harvest festival, carol service and end of term concerts. They learn to improve their vocal skills and work on part singing. The whole of year 4 also meet once a week for singing.

Further up the school we have the Senior Choir. Again a non-auditioned group as we believe that everyone can sing! They perform in all major services in the college chapel and the end of term concerts. The music becomes more challenging, leading to three part pieces.

Finally we have the Senior Singers. This is an auditioned group of year 8 boys and girls who perform more ambitious songs, both classical and popular.

Other Opportunities

We have a Concert Band which plays a more jazz-based repertoire and is open to pupils who play wind and brass (approx. grade 2/3 standard and above).

The Percussion Ensemble is a chance for any pupil to experience exciting rhythmic pieces, working on choreographed body percussion, improvisation, samba styles etc.

Musical Theatre is a very popular activity, with all children having the opportunity to perform on stage. In recent years, we performed Oliver!, Summer Holiday, Honk and Joseph.

Smaller ensembles such as trios, quartets and jazz groups are set up to cater for the more advanced musicians’ needs. Pupils are also encouraged to form their own bands and compose songs with support from staff. The best classical ensembles may be entered for the National Chamber Music for Schools Competition. Pupils are also encouraged to join the Brighton Youth Orchestras and to attend IAPS music courses.