I joined Warwick Junior School in 2014 and was immediately captivated by the wealth of opportunities on offer in the music department and the enthusiasm and charisma that shone through the staff.

I quickly took on the viola as part of the string project, which gave every boy the opportunity to access professional music and singing became part of my daily life. At the age of 8, I was awarded a choral scholarship, allowing me to train as a chorister at St. Mary’s Church in Warwick, where I still sing today. Opportunities to perform were great in number with the emphasis always on enjoyment and participation for all. This continued into the Senior School, where the sheer number of different groups made me feel like a child in a sweetshop!

The Year 7 music scheme once again made music accessible to all boys in my year and the number of individual music lessons skyrocketed. Through various groups and orchestras, I was able to participate in a breadth of repertoire, performing in concerts and competitions across a range of genres with great success. Singing with the Chapel Choir opened the doors to venues such as the Royal Albert Hall and St. Paul’s Cathedral. As a Music Scholar, I enjoyed several trips to the opera, and close links with several Oxford colleges opened my eyes to the possibility of applying for an Oxbridge Choral Scholarship.

My love of music led me to continue studying academically as I chose music at GCSE. This exposed me to new areas, including composition, which soon became something to fill up any free time! Warwick’s music computer room provides a comprehensive education in current notation software, and I have developed skills that I will take with me throughout my musical career. Beyond GCSE I took Music for A-level, and, with six other students in my class, have enjoyed the benefits of a small, focused teaching group.

The Advanced Musicianship Programme, which runs on Friday afternoons, gives students insight into topics as wide-ranging as score reading, mindfulness, and conducting - which can be enhanced through conducting workshops with Rebecca Miller and the Orchestra of the Swan. I had the department’s full support in numerous creative projects, notably an original musical: ‘Hastings!’ which combined my love of musical theatre and history. Building on my newfound interest in conducting, I was given the opportunity to musically direct the Lower School’s production of Shrek: The Musical in June 2024.

My experience studying music at Warwick School has been nothing short of amazing. I have felt inspired by the teaching staff and by my peers, and truly believe our school’s facilities make it one of the best-equipped institutions for the study of music.

There is a very strong pastoral network within Warwick School’s music department. I have never felt afraid to go to them for support with clashes, feeling overwhelmed by commitments, or reflecting on performances. As professionals within the music industry, they are all familiar with the pressures of managing your time effectively and having high expectations of yourself. They have equally been incredibly enthusiastic about all of my musical endeavours and, when the time came to apply for university, gave their full support in my application to Oxford with mock interviews and guidance.

I completed my ARSM singing diploma in July 2024, gaining a distinction! My diploma would not have been possible without the expertise and support of Head of Music Scholars, Miss Hooker. She has been incredibly important in organising and encouraging students and also takes on the challenging role of accompanying nearly all soloists in their exams and concert performances. Preparation for my diploma was spearheaded by my singing teacher, Mrs. Newton, who has provided weekly tutoring and support since I began lessons with her in 2018.

Warwick is very lucky to have such a vibrant and supportive music department. Right the way through from Year 7 to Sixth Form, students are encouraged to be creative and embrace all that the department has to offer. Students who begin their musical journeys at an entry-level can expect to participate in groups and concerts at an incredibly high standard by the time they leave school. Music at Warwick could mean playing in a symphony orchestra, jazz combo, string quartet, rock band, or a choir, with every activity supported by highly experienced staff. Such a varied offering is a testament to the dedication and passion of both students and staff. Beyond the technical and artistic development, music at Warwick fosters a strong sense of community, collaboration, and confidence that stays with students long after they leave.