Music
Students are able to join a wide range of groups and ensembles.
The Wind Band welcomes woodwind and brass players of grade 2 standard and above. The Band is similar to a military band and the School enjoys good relationships with a number of local military establishments, including the Band of the Rifles and The Royal Marines Band, with workshops/rehearsal sessions and joint concerts taking place both in School and at the military establishments.
The Wind Band performs at a number of venues, and is particularly busy during the Autumn term in the lead up to Christmas. The Band is joined by our other ensembles and soloists for our Annual Christmas Concert at The Turner Sims Concert Hall in Southampton.
Our Choir meets on Tuesday lunchtimes and rehearses throughout the Autumn term in preparation for a number of concerts throughout the region, including at Alton Abbey, St. James' Church West End, and our Annual Carol Service at Bitterne Parish Church. The Musical, which takes place at the end of the Spring term, enables vocalists to develop their skills either as soloists or as part of the chorus.
The String Orchestra takes part in both the Annual Christmas Concert and the Music Competition. Again, the minimum standard is Grade 2.
Smaller ensembles include Jazz and Rock Bands. The Jazz Band is currently playing modern Jazz and the Rock Band performs music in many different styles. Minimum standard for the Jazz Band is Grade 3, and Rock Band requires knowledge of a wide range of chord and rhythms.
In the Summer term, the School holds its House Music and Verse Speaking Competition, giving students the opportunity to perform in public either as soloists or as part of an ensemble. All winners generally perform to a very high standard (usually above Grade 7). The Finals of the Competition are held over two evenings, with external adjudicators deciding the places.
Many of our students are involved in music-making outside School, several performing in City and County ensembles. In addition, three members of our Choir have been successful in gaining places in the Winchester Cathedral Girls' Choir.
Students who make the most of their musical education at our School and who continue this commitment into Further Education may look forward to an exciting career in the music world.
