Music
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Our vision is for music to permeate the life of The Perse - not to be something that simply takes place in a quiet corner of the School. Regular musical assemblies take place in front of all the pupils, groups frequently perform at off-site community events and the 1st XV Rugby team even used a recording session as part of a training exercise.
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In the Music Department, a solid academic programme for those opting for public examinations in the subject (22 A* out of 25 GCSE candidates in 2007) meets a thriving extra-curricular community where the ethos is firmly one of 'opportunity for all'. A senior orchestra, string orchestra, chorus, chorale, 2 wind bands, swing band and jazz band meet weekly along with nearly forty additional groups including string quartets, brass groups, clarinet/saxophone ensembles, oboe group and a Samba band. We also provide a full range of classes in theory, advanced aural tests and seminars in the use of the recording studio. In 2005-06, we used the studio to record a CD which is available from the Department.
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Three of our major annual events are perhaps worth further highlighting. In March, our annual concert in the University Concert Hall involves all the senior musicians with a number of the Upper Sixth Form performing Concerto movements. In May, we perform a concert at OLEM Church which includes a choral work (Haydn's Nelson Mass and Mozart's Requiem have been performed in recent years). Also in May, the lighter side of Perse Music is represented through our Charity Cabaret - a variety show to a sell-out audience in the School Hall that normally raises around £1500 for local and international charities.
We are fortunate to attract some very talented musicians to The Perse and during the last academic year no fewer than ten pupils achieved an Associated Board Grade 8 with distinction. However, we take equal pleasure in the individual who works hard to perform a piece in one of our informal teatime concerts and our team of enthusiastic instrumental staff collectively ensure that every ability and taste is catered for.
Music is accepted and enjoyed:
it plays an important part in the life of the school.
(ISI Inspection Report 2004)
If you are a prospective parent with a son or daughter who is interested in music, I would be delighted to meet you when you visit the School. Please telephone the Music Office on (01223) 403831 in order to arrange an appointment. You might be interested in finding out more about the Music Scholarship Examination or simply how we can help your child fulfil his or her musical potential. Do take a look at our Academic and Extra-Curricular pages which give more information about schemes of learning, repertoire and our programme of events.
If you would like to download an application form for instrumental tuition (current parents or those starting in the forthcoming academic year), please click here>
Mr Gavin Richards
Director of Music