What music opportunities are there at Oundle?

Music is a vibrant and integral part of daily life at Oundle. Over 700 pupils take instrumental lessons each week, supported by a team of nine full-time and 38 visiting teachers. Our facilities include 40 dedicated teaching and practice rooms, a recital room, rehearsal space, technology studio and library — providing the environment and expertise for pupils to develop their craft.

Opportunities are as diverse as they are inclusive. Pupils take part in everything from lunchtime concerts and choral evensongs to Led Zeppelin anniversary performances, concerto competitions and overseas tours. Ensembles range from Chapel Choir, Schola Cantorum and Symphony Orchestra to jazz orchestras, wind and percussion ensembles, pipe band, steel pans, rock bands and more.

Our pupils achieve at a high level — recent successes include 5 Oxbridge Choral Scholarships, 2 Oxbridge Organ Scholarships, 2 Conservatoire placements, 11 Diplomas, 47 Grade 8s (84% with Distinction/Merit) and 4 pupils in National ensembles — but what matters most is the spirit of participation. Whether performing on stage, recording for OSCAR Radio or playing purely for the joy of it, pupils are encouraged to explore music in their own way.

Our partnership with the Royal College of Music brings professional musicians into School for workshops and performances, while also extending musical outreach into the local community — helping pupils understand the role of music not just as an art, but as a way of connecting with others.