Music at Marlborough House plays an integral part in school life and the emphasis is very much on having fun whilst learning. Every child is encouraged to develop their enjoyment and appreciation of a variety of musical genres, through performing, composing and listening. The musical opportunities we offer are tailored to suit all abilities.
Informal Concerts are held each half of term and larger scale events such as our Christmas and Summer Concerts, musicals and productions, enable the children to work together and delight our audiences of family and friends. The children also perform in the community, at local Churches, Restaurants, the Wealden Fair and the Cottage Hospital. We like to take part in charity events too, such as The Barnardo’s Young Supporters Concert or The WellChild Awards, and embrace opportunities to compete in music festivals and national competitions.
A 'lockdown' Summer 2020 video for the annual Summer Concert
Music in the younger years is delivered through both song and dance in a practical and cross-curricular way. Emphasis is placed on listening skills and an understanding of pulse through musical games, action songs and through studying well known pieces of music. Our Pre-Prep teacher is trained in Dalcroze Eurhythmics and the Kodaly method.
Many pupils take part in the choir and learn musical instruments; each year a considerable number of pupils achieve distinction and merit awards in instrumental music examinations
isi report june 2015
In Music we encourage everyone to participate. The children enjoy music making themselves but they also learn to assess and appreciate other music, whether it is that of a classmate or an accomplished professional. Gifted musicians are given extra support and guidance, as are those who need help in recognising their skills and steadily improving them.
In the Prep School singing is at the heart of class lessons as well as developing knowledge of music theory and the musical elements (e.g. structure, dynamics, timbre, tempo and texture). Composers, orchestral instruments, world music and the history of western music are introduced as topics.
Keyboards and music software are used along with classroom percussion and the children’s own musical instruments, for experimentation, improvisation and composition.
At the centre of our philosophy is the belief that the gift of Music is one that can enhance our lives mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually, and that is what we aim to do.
Peripatetic Teachers
A team of professional musicians work as peripatetic teachers and offer instrumental lessons in percussion, electric guitar, all string, woodwind and brass instruments, classical guitar, piano and singing. Extra-curricular clubs such as our Rock Band, Ukulele Group, String Group, Wind Band, Flute Group, Brass Ensemble, Guitar Group, SAMBA Band and our four choirs take place throughout the week.
Clare Preece, Brass Teacher
Richmond Stockwell, Drum and Percussion Teacher
Ed Bingham, Guitar Teacher
Gill Hayward, String Teacher