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Music
At Berkhampstead, every pupil is immersed in music from the earliest age. With an incredible array of instruments and a dedicated team of specialist music teachers, the opportunity to take up an individual instrument is deeply embedded in our culture.
Outstanding - I challenge anyone to find a similar sized prep school that performs better musically.
— Michelle Bareham, Head of School
Performing
Music at Berkhampstead is a celebration of talent and teamwork, with every child encouraged to perform. Talented musicians thrive in our chamber groups for both instrumentalists and singers, and our VoxBox choir was even invited a few years ago to perform for HRH Prince Charles.
Playing together is a cornerstone of our musical ethos, with children seizing opportunities to perform in recitals, assemblies, festivals and concerts. Informal recitals each term showcase children of all abilities, while the annual Spring Concert at the Town Hall or Pittville Pump Room is a highlight, involving every child from Year 2 to Year 6. The quality of performances is truly extraordinary.
Participating
By Year 4, over 92% of pupils are learning an instrument and join our many thriving ensembles and choirs. From double bass to bassoon, trombone to flute, the range of instruments is impressive.
Our youngest children in Kindergarten enjoy music with our Early Years and Pre-Prep Head of Music, who inspires a love of music-making from the get-go. Pre-Prep groups like ‘Crash, Bang, Wallop’ for percussion and ‘Strum It’ for ukulele bring joy and excitement.
Inspiring
All our pupils are taught by specialist peripatetic music teachers, ensuring they develop key musical skills and discover their natural talents. This approach fosters a lifelong love of music, with many children achieving truly remarkable standards.
Truly remarkable standards are reached by a large percentage of the children - their love of music is quite clear. Berkhampstead is a wonderfully musical school.
— Current Parent
Composing
Our budding composers bring their imaginations to life using iPads and apps like GarageBand. Using keyboards, percussion and even a drum machine, children experiment with sound effects, scores, and choreography.
Achieving
Our pupils achieve great success in music exams and scholarships, with many reaching Grade 5 or above by age 11. Several are selected for prestigious ensembles like the National Children’s Orchestra, National Children’s Choir, and other local music groups.
Enjoying
Whatever a child’s musical ability when they join Berkhampstead, there is something for everyone to try. From singing to playing instruments, every child develops skills, confidence, and a deep appreciation for music.
Music has been central to Berkhampstead since its founding in 1945, and with our exceptional staff, every child has the chance to enjoy, achieve and shine. If your child is considering learning an instrument, this is the perfect place to begin their musical journey.