We have a deeply-rooted musical tradition here at Newstead Wood School which is at the heart of school life. We believe our wide range of extra-curricular opportunities are invaluable in both supporting our academic music curriculum as well as nurturing a life-long enjoyment for music.
Our array of musical ensembles allow students to uniquely collaborate with musicians in other year groups, allowing students to socialise beyond their immediate group of friends. Because of this, students that are involved in our music opportunities not only develop their ensemble playing but also find that before long they are part of the musical community in the department. Our ensembles include Junior and Senior Orchestra, Musical Theatre group, Gospel Choir, Folk group, Rock band, as well as other ad-hoc ensembles. We encourage all students to be involved in at least one musical activity during their time here.
The Department organises 1-1 instrumental and vocal lessons for students, with over 20 specialist teachers visiting the department each week. If you are interested in your daughter/son having private instrumental or voice lessons please download and complete the Instrumental application form and return it to the school office.
Our Composition Programme, established in the 2021-2022 academic year, allows musically talented students in Years 8 and 9 to learn the rudiments of composition as well as to develop their own unique compositional voice. Applications open in the summer term and successful students attend weekly sessions.
The department organises student performance opportunities throughout the year, including for our Year 7, 8 & 9 Interhouse Music Recitals, Armistice service, Advent Concert, Winter Concert, assemblies, open days and Commemoration Day. We also regularly invite external musicians into school to work with our students; recent events include African Drumming, Composition and Percussion workshops.
Our Music Department Sharepoint site allows students to access tailored resources and links to support their academic music studies, as well as providing the latest information about our extra-curricular music activities.
For any further information regarding music at Newstead, please contact the Head of Music.